Giving blood is a selfless and life-saving act of public service. It entails collecting blood from a donor to be utilized for transfusions or other essential medical procedures. Despite this, misconceptions and misconceptions persist, frequently causing needless anxiety about the procedure, which makes many individuals reluctant to give. Dr Vikas Dua, principal director and head of pediatric hematology, hemato oncology, and bone marrow transplantation at the Fortis Memorial Research Institute in Gurugram, discussed the prevalent misconceptions surrounding blood donation and debunked them with statistics in an interview with HT Lifestyle.

Myth 1: Giving blood will make you weaker

Truth: One of the most prevalent misconceptions is this one. The fluid lost during donation is actually replaced by the body in a flash. The majority of individuals return to normal in 24 hours, particularly if they drink plenty of water and get enough rest afterward.

Myth 2: If you donate, you could lose your blood

Truth: A standard donation only takes one pint of the 10–12 pints of blood in your body. The lost red blood cells are completely restored in a few weeks because the bone marrow immediately starts producing them.

Myth 3: Giving blood is painful

Truth: The needle only causes momentary pain. The majority of donors claim to experience little or no discomfort during the procedure. The typical donation lasts for less than ten minutes.

Myth 4: Giving can make you sick

In reality, this is untrue. Every piece of blood donation gear is sterilized and used only once. Donating poses no risk of contracting infections such as HIV or hepatitis.

Myth 5: Only individuals of a certain age group are eligible to give blood

In reality, healthy people between the ages of 18 and 65 may donate in most nations, and in some cases, even up to the age of 70. Additionally, with parental permission, adolescents between the ages of 16 and 17 may be eligible.

Myth 6: If you are taking medicine, you are unable to donate blood

In fact, not every drug will disqualify you. Popular medications, such as birth control or antihistamines, do not typically block donation. Contacting the blood center is the best course of action.

Myth 7: Because of their low iron levels, vegetarians are unable to give

Truth: Although iron is crucial, several vegetarians have adequate iron levels. Prior to giving, a fast hemoglobin check is performed to guarantee that it is safe.

Myth 8: A single donation makes no difference

Truth: Each pint has the potential to save as many as three lives. Regardless of whether they are trauma victims, cancer patients, or surgical patients, your contribution counts.