10 Reasons Why You Should Donate Blood

1. Blood transfusion saves lives, but not enough blood donation is happening to meet all transfusion needs in the world, WHO says

2. There is a constant need for blood because it can be stored only for a limited period of time before use

3. Globally, around 118.5 mn units of donated blood are collected every year, but this is not adequate, WHO says

4. A stable base of regular, voluntary & unpaid blood donors is a must for adequate supply of safe blood

5. WHO says a blood service that gives patients access to adequate safe blood and blood products is important for an effective health system

6. The blood you donate is used for patients in need of surgery, cancer treatment & transfusions for blood loss from traumatic injuries

7. Donating blood is simple. It usually takes just 10 minutes to donate blood

8. A single unit of blood can save many lives as blood can be separated into various components to benefit patients as per their need

9. The donor's medical history & lifestyle is asked, and other parameters checked, so you get a free health screening

10. Regular blood donation gives you a healthier heart and vascular system as it lowers blood pressure and risk for heart attacks, experts say