3 Blood Donation Myths Debunked

Medical science and myths have a long history. Similarly, the myths about blood donation are widespread, which keep people from engaging in one of the noblest deeds mankind can perform.

With World Blood Donation Day (14 June) around the corner, it's time to debunk them and join this noble act.

While there are many blood donation myths, the three most common ones are debunked below:

Myth 1: I Have a Tattoo, So I Can Never Donate Blood

Having a tattoo on your body doesn't mean you can't donate blood. Indeed, introducing ink, metal, or any other foreign material into your body can affect your immunity. But the effects disappear within a week or so, and it has nothing to do with your blood.

Firstly, it's always safe to choose a licensed tattoo artist. They use safe equipment and follow all precautionary steps like using sterile needles before the procedure.

Secondly, you may wait for up to 12 months after getting a tattoo before blood donation. This is a precautionary measure to ensure that you've not developed any disease from the tattoo.

Myth 2: Old Adults Can't Donate Blood

There’s no upper age limit for donating blood, as long as you’re medically weak or have a disease. Otherwise, anyone above the age of 16 and weighing more than 50 kgs of body weight can donate blood.

Older people can save the lives of people similarly as any adult can. So, if you're feeling generally healthy, you're good to go.

Every two seconds in the USA, someone needs blood. Sadly, the stored RBCs can only be stored for 42 days. With so much need for fresh blood, you must donate blood and break the “age” myth.

Myth 3: My Blood Group Is Common. So, It’s Fine If I Don’t Donate Blood

When the blood type is unknown in emergencies, doctors search for O- blood group because it's a universal donor. But, the percentage of O- blood donors is only seven percent in the USA. 

So, in emergencies, the most common blood used is O+ and  38 percent of the US population has an O+ blood group.

So, rare or not, each blood type is valuable and can prove helpful in numerous situations. Talking factually, 4.5 million Americans need blood transfusion each year, and your donation can save someone's life.

Other Blood Donation Myths You Should Stop Believing

Blood Donation Can Make You Weak or Sick: Within 48 hours of donating, your blood volume returns to normal. Within 4-8 weeks, your body will replace the lost red blood cells.

People on Medication Can’t Donate Blood: This is not true in every case. It’s best to consult a doctor to check whether your current medications affect your eligibility to donate blood.

You Must Donate Blood Only Once Each Year: It takes just about 8 weeks for blood cells to replenish. So, it’s safe to donate blood once every three months.

Blood donation is one of the simplest ways to improve health and save the lives of many people. So, believe in facts (not myths) and spread awareness about blood donation.

Location: 14690 Spring Hill Dr, Spring Hill, FL 34609, USA

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