REVEALED: Blood Donation prevents Cancer, Heart diseases, Overweight

As Nigerians joined the rest of world to celebrate World Blood Donor Day yesterday, which is usually observed on the 14th of June every year, its worthy of note that several lives have gone to the grave beyond due to shortage of blood in their system.

With the theme of this year’s campaign being “Thank you for saving my life”, it is really intriguing for donors to know that there exist several health benefits at their disposal, whenever they donate blood. Read the health benefits after the cut…..

Health benefits of donating blood

1. Hemochromatosis

Blood donation reduced risk of hemochromatosis. Hemochromatosis is a health condition that arises due to excess absorption of iron by the body. This may be inherited or may be caused due to alcoholism, anaemia or other disorders. Regular blood donation may help in reducing iron overload. Make sure that the donor meets the standard blood donation eligibility criteria.

2. Anti-cancer benefits

Blood donation may also help in lowering risk of cancer. By donating blood the iron stores in the body are maintained at healthy levels. And the reduction in iron levels in the body is linked with low cancer risk.

3. Healthy heart and liver

Blood donation is beneficial in reducing risk of heart and liver ailments caused by iron overload in the body. Intake of iron rich diet may increase the iron levels in the body and since only limited proportions can be absorbed excess iron gets stored in heart, liver and pancreas. This in turn increases the risk of cirrhosis, liver failure, damage to pancreas, and heart abnormalities like irregular heart rhythms. Blood donation helps in maintaining the iron levels and reduces the risk of various health ailments.

4. Weight loss

Regular blood donation reduces the weight of the donors. This is helpful to those who are obese and are at higher risk of cardiovascular diseases and other health disorders. However, the blood donation should not be very frequent and you may consult your doctor before donating blood to avoid any health issues.

5. New blood cells

After donating blood, the body works to replenish the blood loss. This stimulates the production of new blood cells and in turn helps in maintaining good health.

Blood Donation Process

It is always good to plan blood donation in advance. Consult your doctor before donating blood if there are any health issues or concerns. It is always good to have healthy diet weeks before the donation. On the day of donation, make sure you are well hydrated so keep drinking plenty of fluids. One should wear comfortable clothes during the donation process. In case you are undergoing any treatment or medication, it is advisable to inform the blood bank/clinic/hospital where you are donating blood.

Donate voluntarily: Save a life, stay healthy !