National Blood Donor Month is celebrated in January in order to highlight how important blood donations are. During this month, the rate of blood donations drops due to vacations and increased seasonal illness which is why it is important to bring attention to this matter.
Donating blood equals giving someone the most precious thing – life. This decision can lead to saving many lives if one’s blood is separated into its components which are plasma, platelets and red cells. All of these prove to be life-saving for patients who have cancer, blood disorders, blood loss, chronic injuries, surgeries and much more.
In the United States of America, there is a need of 29,000 units of blood cells every single day. This dire need of blood is followed by the inability to preserve it as it can only be stored in refrigerators for 42 days approximately. In addition to that, a healthy person has the eligibility to donate blood up-to 6 times a year. So, a 50-60 minutes long blood donation can save several lives at once.
Not only that, but donating blood leads to self-benefits as well. Liked with a positive mental health, this practice guarantees prominent health outcomes. From receiving the happiness of possibly saving 3 lives at once to lowering the risks of depression, a blood donor can live a happier and longer life.
