In the seemingly simple act of donating blood, Hidden is a complex web of myths and misunderstandings that drives away many potential donors Donation Center. The Red Cross, one of the main organizations dedicated to blood collection, revealed that only 5% of people are willing to donate blood. A heavy burden is left on the shoulders of a few people and 100% of the blood transfusion needs cannot be met. s population. Why does this imbalance persist? It is in large part due to false beliefs that now is the time to refute them.
Myth 1: “You can’t donate if you have a tattoo”
Forged. The Red Cross clarifies that people with tattoos can donate blood as long as at least four months have passed since the tattoo was received. The same applies to piercings. These body decorations do not prevent lives being saved through blood donation.
Myth 2: “I can’t donate because I’m taking medication”
In many cases, the medications a person takes are completely compatible with donating blood. Analgesics, anti-inflammatory drugs, antihistamines, hormone therapy, anxiolytics, and anti-stress medications generally do not present a barrier.anyone. It is recommended that if you have any questions, you should consult the doctor at the donation unit instead of rushing to rule it out on your own.
Misunderstanding 3: “No way, I have high blood pressure”
You can donate if your blood pressure is controlled with medication at the time of donation. Donor units will take measurements to ensure the voltage is regulated and the process is safe. The same applies to the measurement of hemoglobin.
Myth 4: “I can’t, I’m on my period”
This myth was fed into me. Donating blood is not inconsistent with the menstrual cycle. There are no barriers to donating during menstruation if the donor feels well.
Myth 5: “I can’t…I’ve already had breakfast today”
Nothing could be further from the truth! When donating blood, it actually pays to eat light. It’s important not to confuse blood donation with blood testing, which does require fasting beforehand.
Myth 6: “I can’t donate because I had hepatitis when I was a child.”
Hepatitis A usually affects children and, once fully recovered, is not a barrier to donating blood. However, hepatitis B and C are reasons for excluding blood donation.
Misunderstanding 7: “I am a smoker…”
Smoking before donating will not negatively affect the donating process. However, it is recommended to wait at least two hours after smoking before donating to avoid possible dizziness.
Myth 8: “I have cholesterol”
Although it is important to take care of your health and control your cholesterol levels, this condition does not affect your ability to donate blood. There is no relationship between cholesterol levels and blood donation.
Myth 9: “I don’t want to commit to more donations”
Donating blood is voluntary and does not imply an ongoing commitment. Men can donate up to 4 times a year and women can donate up to 3 times, with a minimum of 2 months between donations. However, each donor can decide when and how often they want to donate, without any pressure to donate regularly.
There is a need to demystify these false beliefs that prevent many people from donating.