Glenda Mary Davison does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. Blood donation is a vital therapy for a number of life threatening conditions.
South Africa needs around , units of blood every year. People needing blood transfusions include accident victims, those with anaemia and patients undergoing surgery. Glenda Mary Davison, a medical scientist with a special interest in haematological malignancy, immunology and inflammation, unpacks the blood donation process in South Africa. Before donation , donors wishing to give blood undergo a mini medical to ensure they are healthy and that it is safe for them to donate.
This includes blood pressure measurements and completing a health questionnaire. Then, blood is drawn to test for HIV and other infectious diseases. The actual donation of ml of blood takes only 10 minutes. Here the donated blood is spun in a centrifuge to separate it into three components, namely red cells, platelets and plasma. After removing any residual white cells, the red cells are stored in a fridge for up to 42 days or until needed by a patient.
The second product is platelets. These are very small blood cells that are vital in the prevention of blood loss and to stop bleeding.
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Our blood centres are open and you can donate safely. You are here: Home Why give blood. Browse Home Blood donation. Blood facts and figures Find out more on blood use and needs in Singapore. Blood donation Blood donation is a safe process. Red blood cells : helps carry oxygen and carbon dioxide to organs and tissue Platelets : helps blood clot White blood cells : helps the body fight infections.
Last updated: 31 Dec Blood donation Can I donate Make an appointment Where to donate Blood donation process Maintain healthy iron levels Types of blood donations Blood facts and figures Blood transfusion Covid vaccine Precautionary measures Rhesus negative blood E-services.
Content in this section show Blood donation Can I donate Make an appointment Where to donate Blood donation process Maintain healthy iron levels Types of blood donations Blood facts and figures Blood transfusion Covid vaccine Precautionary measures Rhesus negative blood E-services.
Sickle cell patients can require blood transfusions throughout their lives. The average red blood cell transfusion is approximately 3 units. A single car accident victim can require as many as units of blood. Blood and platelets cannot be manufactured; they can only come from volunteer donors. The blood type most often requested by hospitals is type O. One donation can potentially save up to three lives. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 1.
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