Milhões de pessoas em todo o mundo dependem das doações de sangue para sobreviver em situações de emergência, cirurgias, tratamentos médicos, doenças crônicas ou de pessoas feridas em situações de emergência. É sabido que a doação de sangue é um ato de generosidade que pode salvar e fazer a diferença na vida dessas pessoas, mas poucos sabem que o ato de doar sangue é também benéfico para o doador.
Benefits for the Donor: Take Care of Yourself While Caring for Others
Now, let's explore in more detail the benefits that blood donation can offer to donors themselves:
- Cardiovascular and Hepatic Protection:Studies show that regular blood donors have a lower risk of cardiovascular and hepatic diseases. The periodic removal of blood from the body helps reduce the burden on these organs, promoting their long-term health.
- Blood Pressure Control: Blood donation can contribute to lowering blood pressure, helping prevent hypertension, a significant risk factor for heart diseases and strokes.
- Cholesterol Levels Under Control: Regular blood donation has been associated with improving cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of related diseases.
- Prevention of Iron-Related Diseases: For individuals with elevated iron levels in the body, such as those with hemochromatosis, blood donation is an effective way to prevent heart and liver diseases and other conditions related to excess iron.
- Benefits for Transgender Men on Hormone Therapy: Transgender men undergoing hormone therapy can benefit even more from blood donation, as hormone therapy tends to thicken the blood. Regular donation can help maintain blood viscosity under control.
- Reduced Cancer Risk: Blood donation contributes to reducing oxidative substances in the body, which can help lower the risk of cancer.
- Support for Liver Function: The liver is an essential organ that cleanses the body of harmful substances. Blood donation can relieve the liver's burden and help maintain its health.
- Free Examinations and NotificationsBefore being made available for transfusion, donated blood undergoes rigorous testing. If concerning medical conditions are detected, such as the presence of viruses, the donor is notified by the blood center, allowing for early treatment and the prevention of complications.
- Right to Paid Leave: According to law No. 1075/1950, donors are entitled to one paid day off per year to perform this civic duty, as rest after donation is recommended.
The Altruistic Actor: Saving Lives
Doar sangue é uma prática que desencadeia uma série de efeitos positivos na vida de quem recebe essa dádiva vital. Muitos pacientes em situações críticas, como vítimas de acidentes, pessoas submetidas a cirurgias complexas e pacientes com doenças graves, dependem de doadores para sobreviver.
Furthermore, blood donation is essential in emergency situations, such as natural disasters and public health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Donated blood is processed and separated into vital components, such as red blood cells, platelets, and plasma, each with a specific role in treating different medical conditions. Therefore, a single blood donation can benefit multiple people, becoming an act of generosity that goes far beyond what we can imagine.
Requirements and Recommendations for Blood Donation
To donate blood safely, it is important to be aware of the requirements and follow some recommendations:
- Age: Generally, donors should be between 16 and 69 years old. Age limits may vary by region.
- Weight and BMI: You must weigh over 51 kilograms and have a Body Mass Index (BMI) equal to or higher than 18.5.
- Medications: Blood donation is not allowed if you are using certain medications listed by the blood center.
- Documentation: Present an original photo ID or a notarized copy in good condition.
- Health Conditions: Various health conditions may temporarily or permanently disqualify a donor. For example, a history of cancer, leukemia, tuberculosis, elephantiasis, leprosy, visceral leishmaniasis, brucellosis, hepatoesplenic schistosomiasis, among others.
- Habits and History: Blood donation is not allowed if you are an intravenous drug user, pregnant or breastfeeding, have diabetes, HIV, received a dura mater graft, among other conditions.
- Tattoos and Piercings: In some places, you may need to wait for a period after getting tattoos or piercings before donating blood.
- Hydration and Nutrition: It is important to be well-hydrated and not fasting on the day of donation. Avoid fatty foods before donation.
- BehaviorsAvoid consuming alcoholic beverages in the 12 hours before donation and do not smoke at least two hours before the procedure.
Donation Frequency
The frequency at which you can donate blood may vary by gender:
- Women: Generally, they can donate blood at intervals of 90 days, with a limit of up to 3 donations per year.
- Men: Generally, they can donate up to 4 times a year, with a 60-day interval between each donation.
Fun Facts:
Did you know that blood has a short shelf life? Blood components, such as red blood cells and platelets, have limited shelf lives, emphasizing the need for regular donations to ensure that patients receive fresh and effective blood products.
In summary, blood donation is a noble action that not only saves lives but also offers a range of health benefits to the donor. Besides being an opportunity to contribute to the community, blood donation can be a way to take care of oneself. Therefore, consider making blood donation a part of your routine. Remember to check the specific requirements in your region and follow the guidelines to ensure that your donation is safe and effective.
Now that you know the benefits and requirements for blood donation, why not schedule your next donation? With your help, we can continue to save lives and take care of the health of all of us. Be part of this chain of solidarity and health.
(ARAUJO, Robson. SmartSolve: The Importance and Benefits of Blood Donation)