Misconception and truth about blood donation

Do you remember the last time you donated blood? Blood donation is one of the most valuable ways someone can help other people. This is very important because it is the only way that can save the lives of patients requiring blood transfusions. Moreover, as there are no alternative substances that can replace blood, patients who need blood transfusions have no choice but to rely on the available blood supply.

However, because of the misconception and misunderstanding that blood donation is dangerous, negative perceptions have been commonplace. These negative perceptions result in a declining number of people donating and a blood shortage for emergency patients requiring blood transfusions. The nation is on alert over declining blood donations. In this article, we will focus on the truth about donating blood.

Misconception 1. Blood donation is not good for one's health.

If you are healthy, there is no problem at all. Our bodies have an extra fifteen percent of the blood we need. Blood donation takes the extra blood the body keep sin case of emergency. After blood donation, you will take a rest for a day or two and there is no affect to your everyday life.

Misconception 2. Blood donation leads to anemia.

It is highly unlikely that blood donation can lead to an increased risk of anemia. Before drawing blood, blood donors should have a blood test to confirm if donation is possible. In addition, for one's health, blood donation is possible only up to five times a year.

Misconception 3. One could be infected with disease by donating blood.

Some people have the erroneous notion that one can contract AIDS by giving blood. However, it is not true. Though some people are scared because the blood is extracted with a needle, the process of giving blood is very safe. The instruments used in taking blood are kept sterile. Also, as the instruments are disposable, it is a principle that all equipment should be thrown away after every use.

Did this clear up your misunderstanding about blood donation? Donating blood is something that needs our attention and our active participation. It can save many precious lives and is available to any healthy person who wants to engage in. How about visiting the Blood Donation centers of the Korean Red Cross?

L.L.F. Editor-in-chief Yu-Jin Kim