Be a hero in 10 minutes: Donate blood and help others

SHAH ALAM - World Blood Donor Day highlights the critical need for blood donations. Many Malaysians lack awareness about the importance and ease of donating blood, leading to frequent blood supply shortages.

Here's why you should consider donating blood:

1. Debunking the Myths:

Myth: Donating blood is a waste.

Fact: Your body quickly replaces donated blood. Kidneys sense blood loss and signal bone marrow to produce more red blood cells. Men benefit from reduced iron levels, lowering heart attack risk by 88 per cent.

Myth: Donating blood is time-consuming.

Fact: The actual blood draw takes only 7-10 minutes. While donors arrive an hour beforehand, this includes registration and a brief health check.

2. Benefits of Donating Blood:

Save Lives: One donation can help up to three lives in need.

Improved Health: Donating blood may offer health benefits like reduced risk of iron overload in men and a free mini-health check with blood pressure, temperature, cholesterol, hemoglobin, iron, and pulse readings.

Emotional Well-being: Knowing you've helped others can be emotionally rewarding.

3. Eligibility and Process:

Requirements: Be over 17 years old, weigh more than 45kg, and pass a brief health check.

Location: Find blood donation centres at nearby hospitals. MySejahtera and Portal My Health websites can help locate centres.

Frequency: Donate blood every 56 days (minimum).

Universal Plasma Donors: People with AB blood type are universal plasma donors, making their contributions even more valuable.

4. The Call to Action:

Many patients with blood-related illnesses like cancer and leukemia rely on blood donations. By donating blood responsibly, you can make a significant impact.

Remember, maintaining your own health is also crucial. After donating, avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours and increase your fluid intake by 500ml to replenish blood.

Let's all work together to ensure a steady blood supply for those in need!