Every year, hundreds of people around the World lose their life due to blood loss after an accident or as a result of some diseases. The only way to prevent these losses is through regular blood donations. In regards of this subject we have asked Dr. Suat Günsel University of Kyrenia Hospital Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry Specialist Sedef Delibaş important points about this subject:

Why is blood donation important?
There is no substitute for blood. The human body is so supernatural that the blood which is known as the vital fluid of life can only be produced by our body, and when it decreases within our body, it reproduces new blood. Therefore, blood donation is vital. Moreover, contrary to the popular belief, the need for donated blood is constant, it is not only for emergencies. Giving blood not only has benefits to the person who is in need, but also has numerous benefits for the donor (blood donor).

How is the average blood donation rate in our country?
Unlike the blood donation rates in developed countries, unfortunately the blood donation rates in our country are quite low and one of the biggest reasons for this is social stereotypes and prejudices. In general, in our society people has the idea that blood donation means losing too much blood, whereas individuals who wish to donate blood are carefully evaluated and allowed to donate blood only if they meet the requirements. Therefore, there is absolutely no such risk in blood donation.

What are the steps and criterias to donate blood?
The person who wishes to donate blood is also tested and screened for diseases such as pulse and blood pressure control, HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and Syphilis. Donors must be between 18 and 65 years old, but the upper age limit for first-time donors is up to 60 years old. Pulse, blood pressure and certain blood values should be at the desired level, also the donor must eat before donating, must not have an infectious disease and should not use antibiotics for 2 weeks prior donation.

What are the benefits of donating blood?
After donation the donor’s body regenaretes blood cells. Research shows that blood donation has benefits such as reducing stress, improving emotional well-being, reducing headaches and contributing to physical health. In addition, studies show that blood donation leads to a decrease in the risk of heart disease and heart attacks. Studies has also shown that there is a positive effect on blood pressure for patients with high blood pressure who have provided regular blood donation. Regular blood donation also leads to a significant decrease in cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol levels, helping to prevent the risk of heart diseases. Blood donation is also known to reduce the risk of developing some types of cancer.

Why should we donate blood?  
Because donating blood saves lives. By providing the need for blood, we can touch the lives of countless people such as patients who lose blood after an accident, patients who receive regular blood transfusions, cancer patients, thalassemia patients and hemophilia patients. The donated blood can not only benefit a single patient, but can help multiple patients. So donating blood saves lives. After all; donating blood is important for your health, it is the most beautiful gift that can be given to someone and it saves lives. Remember, someday you may be the one in need for blood. “