We all know that blood is the most vital component of our body and blood is required by everyone in almost all medical treatments, in accidents, in surgeries etc. However, not even 1% of our population is aware about the facts and myths of blood donation.

If you are one of them then you must read through this article to know what you have been missing. It is a time to break the myths and know the facts — the facts that we all have been reading since ages, but have kept ignoring them. Let us revise them by considering their advantages too. First and foremost, lets look at why should you donate blood?

Here are some of the key reasons why you should donate blood, and in the process, shatters some myths about blood donation.

Why should you donate?

• Human body is the only source of blood – no alternative yet!
• You save three lives by donating only one unit of blood. RBC, plasma & platelets extracted from blood can be given to three different patients.
• It doesn’t cost you anything except 30 minutes of your time.
• Everyone requires blood at least once in their lifetime (either for themselves or for their near and dear ones).
• It is the safest way of saving someone’s life.
• You get a donor’s card which can be replaced anytime for a unit of blood. Hence, you will ensure that blood is there when you or someone close to you may need it.
• A proud feeling of having saved many lives is priceless. A person can donate for 37 years of his life and at least 3-4 times a year. Thus, a person can save a minimum of 111 lives.

Top 5 myths and excuses that people give to restrain themselves from blood donation

1. I have a needle phobia.
   Believe me; you’ll just feel the initial pinch, that’s all. If you take courage to make one donation, you will wonder why you ever hesitated.
2. I have a very rare blood group. So, I’ll rather wait till there is any special need. OR My blood group is very common that they would be having enough in stock.
   Please remember that every type of blood is needed daily to meet patient’s needs. If you have a common blood type, there are many patients who need it, so it is in high demand. If you have a less common blood type, there are fewer donors available to give it, so it is in short supply.
3. I am afraid of getting infection or AIDS.
   It is not possible to get AIDS by donating blood. A new sterile needle is used for each donor and is discarded after the use.
4. I already donated blood this year.
   You can donate blood every three months and hence up to 4 times a year.
5. I am not eligible for donation.
   Anyone above 18 years of age and weighing more than 45 Kg is eligible to donate. A thorough check is adopted before every donation and if you feel you are not eligible, then you can get yourself diagnosed once and then rectify your weaknesses. Thus, you’ll always keep yourself healthy in order to keep many others healthy.

It is never too late to start helping mankind. It just requires a start, later you would love to contribute for this noble cause. Visit your nearest blood bank and join the club of real heroes – be a proud blood donor, today!