Every few seconds, someone needs blood. Blood is the most precious gift that anyone can give to another person. Paediatric healthcare relies on a steady supply of blood to treat a wide range of conditions, and that supply comes from our blood donors- Our heroes. Blood transfusions help alleviate symptoms and improve overall quality of life in children suffering with illnesses affecting the blood, such as sickle cell disease, thalassemia, aplastic anaemia. But there are various challenges that need our attention.
Blood Donation For Paediatric Care: Importance
“Blood transfusion is needed for children who have lost blood due to an injury or surgery, children who have anaemia due to disease-modifying treatment such as chemotherapy for cancer and also for various complex surgeries like transplants and birth defects,” shares Dr Anju Verma, Blood Bank Incharge, MRCH, Madhukar Rainbow Children's Hospital, Malviya Nagar, New Delhi.
Emergencies and accidents can happen at any time. Having a safe and sufficient blood supply on hand is essential for immediate treatment. In these situations, the right blood type and Rh factor are crucial, making blood donation all the more critical.
Blood donation is a simple act and one donation saves up to three lives. With each donation, your blood can be separated into its various components such as red blood cells, platelets, and plasma, each benefiting a different patient in need.
Also Read: Blood Donation Eligibility Requirements To Know Before Proceeding
There are several myths regarding blood donation that can deter potential donors. Dr Anju Verma debunks some of the common myths here.
Myths and Facts About Blood Donation
Myth- Donating blood is painful
Fact- While there is a brief needle prick, the process is painless.
Myth- It takes a long time to donate blood:
Fact- The actual blood donation process takes about 5-10 minutes, though the entire visit, including registration and post-donation rest, can take about an hour.
Also Read: Blood Donation Do’s And Don’ts To Keep In Mind
Myth- You can catch diseases from donating blood:
Fact- All needles and equipment used in the process are sterile and used only once, ensuring donors cannot contract diseases.
Myth- I can’t donate blood because I have a medical condition:
Fact- It's best to consult with the doctor in blood donation centre regarding your specific situation.
Myth- Donating blood causes weakness:
Fact- It does not cause weakness, it is in the mind.
Myth- Frequent donation is harmful:
Fact- Donors can safely donate blood every 3 months (male), 4 months (female).
Myth- People with tattoos or piercings can’t donate:
Fact- Can donate provided the procedure was done 12 months before.
“Dispelling these myths is important to encourage more people to participate in life-saving blood donations,” concludes Dr Verma.
By giving blood, you become a vital part of the paediatric healthcare system, giving children a fighting chance. If you're eligible and healthy, consider becoming a blood donor. Your generosity could be the difference between life and death for a sick child. Remember, every blood donation is a gift of life, and each time you donate, you have the potential to impact 3 lives.