Blood donation is a selfless act that has the power to transform lives. But, misconceptions and apprehensions often deter potential donors. Myths about blood donation persist, hindering efforts to meet the growing demand for blood and blood products. Here are the five common myths about blood donation.
1.
MYTH:
Donating blood increases the risk of acquiring HIV and other infections.
FACT:
Medical professionals prioritise the use of sterile and new needles for every donation, ensuring that each needle is used only once. All used needles are promptly discarded to prevent any potential contamination.
According to the studies conducted by netmeds.com, before donating blood, individuals undergo a comprehensive screening process, which includes a detailed questionnaire and laboratory testing. This screening aims to identify any potential risk factors or underlying infections that may disqualify a person from donating blood. If a donor is found to have a high-risk profile or any indication of infections, their blood is not used for transfusion. Furthermore, donated blood undergoes extensive testing for various infectious diseases, including HIV hepatitis b and c, syphilis and others. These tests help ensure that any blood units found to be contaminated or carrying infections are promptly discarded.
2.
MYTH:
Donating blood can lead to a weakened immune system.
FACT:
As per American Red Cross, the process of donating blood involves, primarily, the extraction of red blood cells, which are replenished by the body within a few days. While it may take a few weeks for white blood cell levels to return to normal after donation, this temporary decrease in white blood cells does not significantly impair the immune system functionality.
The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues and organs that work together to defend the body against infections and diseases. It is not compromised by the act of donating blood. The immune response is regulated by various factors such as the production of specific antibodies, the presence of immune cells and the overall health of an individual.
3.
MYTH:
Individuals with diabetes cannot donate blood.
FACT:
As per Lancet Citizens' Commission, diabetics can donate blood, provided their blood sugar levels are well managed and within the normal range specifically in terms of fasting blood sugar. It is important, however, for individuals with certain medical conditions such as cardiac ailments, hypoglycemia symptoms or blood sugar levels in the pre-diabetic range to consult their healthcare provider before considering blood donation.
It is crucial to ensure that the diabetes management is optimised to prevent any potential adverse effect on the recipient of the donated blood.
4.
MYTH:
Individuals with tattoos or piercing are ineligible to donate blood.
FACT:
This notion is a longstanding myth, but it is false. According to the American Red Cross guidelines, individuals should wait for a period of three months after getting the tattoo, to donate blood. But this, only if the tattoo was done from a tattoo parlour with a government licence. If not, the person cannot donate blood.
The guidelines also state that individuals who have undergone a piercing can donate blood without any issues if the instrument used during the piercing was single-use disposable. However, if a reusable gun or any other reusable instrument was used during the piercing, potential donors are requested to wait for three months before donating blood.
5.
MYTH:
Being on medication prohibits blood donation.
FACT:
As per a research by netmeds.com, taking medicines generally does not disqualify individuals from donating blood. The eligibility to donate blood may depend on the underlying condition for which the medication is prescribed. If the condition is well managed and the individual is in good health, he or she is usually eligible to donate. However, there are certain medications that may require a waiting period after the last dose before donating.
