World Blood Donor Day - Every Drop Counts

World Blood Donor Day is celebrated globally on June 14. This event, organised by the World Health Organization, aims to raise awareness about the importance of blood donation and its life-saving impact. It also highlights how crucial blood donations are and encourages more people to become regular donors, ultimately saving more lives and improving health outcomes worldwide.

World Blood Donor Day History

World Blood Donor Day was first recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2004. In 2005, during the 58th World Health Assembly, it was declared an annual global event aimed at raising awareness about the importance of blood donation.

The history of blood donation dates back to ancient times, but significant progress was made by English physician Richard Lower. He is renowned for his pioneering work on blood transfusion and the cardiopulmonary system, detailed in his book ‘Tractatus de Corde.’ Lower was the first to experiment with blood donation in animals, successfully transfusing blood between two dogs without adverse effects.

The WHO chose June 14, the birthday of Karl Landsteiner, as World Blood Donor Day. Landsteiner, an Austrian-American immunologist and pathologist, was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1930 for his groundbreaking work on blood groups and the development of the modern blood transfusion system. This day honours his contributions and encourages more people to donate blood regularly, emphasising the life-saving impact of blood donation.

World Blood Donor Day 2024 Significance

World Blood Donor Day was established to unite people globally who share a common goal that is saving lives of people affected by various deadly diseases. On this day, volunteers from different countries come together to donate blood and plasma, offering crucial help to those in need.

Importance of Blood Donation

There are countless benefits of blood donation. It serves as a lifeline for thousands of individuals who require transfusions due to accidents, surgeries, or medical conditions like anaemia and cancer, directly contributing to the preservation of life.

Furthermore, blood donation offers numerous health advantages to donors themselves. Research suggests that regular blood donors experience faster recovery from illnesses, possibly due to the replenishment of blood cells after donation. Additionally, donating blood can aid in weight management, promote a healthy liver by stimulating the production of new cells, and help regulate iron levels in the body.

Moreover, donating blood reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and certain types of cancer, contributing to overall well-being. Thus, if you donate blood and save life it will be not only regarded as a charitable act but also a vital component of public health that benefits both recipients and donors alike.

Who can donate blood?

Are you wondering can I donate blood? Yes you can. But before donating blood, you must meet specific criteria outlined by the World Health Organization -

1. The donor should weigh a minimum of 50 kg (in certain regions, the minimum weight requirement may be 45 kg).

2. He/she should fall between 18 and 65 years

3. He/she should not be suffering from a sore throat, cold, flu, or any other infections

4. The donor’s haemoglobin level should be at least 12.5 g/dl.

5. The donor must maintain normal blood pressure throughout the donation process.

Who cannot donate blood?

1. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as those who have recently undergone an abortion.

2. Individuals who have had a tattoo or body piercing within the last 6 months.

3. Anyone who has undergone a minor dental procedure must wait 24 hours before donating, while those who have had a major dental procedure should wait for a month.

4. Individuals who have tested positive for HIV or have a history of recreational drug injection.

5. Those who have consumed alcohol within 48 hours before donation.

6. Individuals who have undergone surgery within the past six months.

7.People with active tuberculosis are not suitable candidates for blood donation.

What are the objectives of World Blood Donor Day 2024?

The objectives of World Blood Donor Day 2024 include raising awareness about the critical need for safe blood donations worldwide, particularly in light of ongoing health crises. It aims to emphasise the importance of voluntary blood donation and honour the selfless contributions of donors. Additionally, the day seeks to encourage more people to become regular blood donors and ensure a stable blood supply for medical emergencies and treatments. Through educational campaigns and community outreach, World Blood Donor Day aims to inspire individuals to participate in lifesaving blood donation efforts and promote a culture of solidarity and compassion towards those in need of blood transfusions.

How can you contribute?

If you want to contribute but find it hard to participate in blood transfusion events, you can still help by donating your own blood. This simple act can make a significant difference. It is the easiest way to support the ones in need and honour World Blood Donor Day.