Blood donation is a noble and selfless act that may helps save tens of millions of lives. However, donating blood also can include its personal set of advantages for donors. Donating blood might help scale back extra iron ranges within the blood thereby stopping hemochromatosis, a situation which might enhance threat of cardiovascular illnesses together with coronary heart assault and stroke. The act may present psychological advantages to the donor. Before blood donation, folks must endure screening processes for blood strain, haemoglobin ranges, and general well being evaluation. This might help with early detection of sure well being situations, similar to anaemia or infectious illnesses, which can in any other case go unnoticed. (Also learn: Crisis looms as city blood banks grapple with blood shortage)

World Blood Donar Day is noticed yearly on June 14. The day was first recognised in 2004 by 4 worldwide organizations together with World Health Organization (WHO), the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the International Federation of Blood Donor Organizations (IFBDO) and the International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT). The thought was to lift consciousness concerning the want for protected blood and blood merchandise, and to precise gratitude for blood donors for his or her voluntary and life-saving reward.

Benefits of blood donation

"Blood donations are a lifeline for countless individuals in need, and their impact goes far beyond saving lives. There are profound benefits of donating blood. Not only does it provide essential support to patients undergoing surgeries, cancer treatments, and emergencies, but it also holds significant advantages for the donors themselves. Regular blood donation helps maintain healthy iron levels in the body, reducing the risk of conditions like hemochromatosis. It can also serve as a health check, as each donated unit undergoes rigorous testing for infectious diseases, ensuring the donor's well-being. Moreover, the act of donating blood fosters a sense of community and altruism, offering donors a fulfilling experience and the knowledge that they have made a positive impact on someone's life. Blood donations form the foundation of a reliable and sustainable blood supply, ensuring that hospitals can meet the needs of patients. It is through the selfless act of donating blood that we can collectively create a healthier and more compassionate world," says Dr Girish C J, Consultant & HOD. Narayana Hrudayalaya Blood Centre, Narayana Health City, Bengaluru.

"Blood donation is one of the most selfless acts that a person can perform as it has the power to save lives. Regular blood donation has been linked to several potential health benefits. For example, it may help reduce the risk of certain diseases especially cardiovascular disease, as well as reduces levels of iron in the body. Donating blood can also stimulate the production of new blood cells, which can have positive effects on overall health and well-being. Additionally, by undergoing regular blood tests before each donation, a person will be able to stay up-to-date on your own body's health status. Regular blood donation helps to maintain the blood supply chain, which is crucial for emergency situations, surgeries, and treating chronic illnesses. Without regular donors, the blood supply could become dangerously low, putting many lives at risk," says Dr Kalpana Velaskar, Senior Consultant & Head Transfusion Medicine, NH SRCC Children’s Hospital, Mumbai.