The Importance of Blood Donation in Ukraine During Wartime
The war in Ukraine continues, and the need for blood donation is exceptionally high.
Employees of the Primary Healthcare Center No. 16 have conducted their tenth joint blood donation. As medical professionals, they understand the importance of maintaining a blood bank, so they donate every two months.
Blood donation offers several benefits:
- reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases;
- lowers the likelihood of certain cancers;
- revitalizes the blood system;
- regular donors live 3-5 years longer;
- saves lives of others.
One donation can save up to three lives.
Currently, blood donation is a vital contribution to Ukraine's defense capability.
Current blood donation needs are published on the Telegram channels “Odessa. Official” and “Donor Odessa” with the support of the city council.
Since the start of the war, over 11,500 donations have been made through the “Donor Odessa” project, representing thousands of saved lives.
***
A donor can be any Ukrainian citizen weighing at least 50 kg and aged between 18 and 60 (up to 65 with a doctor's permission).
There must be at least 60 days between whole blood donations for full recovery of blood components. After donating certain components (plasma, platelets), the next donation can occur in 14 days.
The donation process is safe as sterile instruments are used. Donors have their hemoglobin levels checked and undergo virus screening before donation.
Absolute contraindications for blood donation:
- HIV, viral hepatitis, syphilis;
- active tuberculosis;
- diabetes and other severe endocrine diseases;
- cancer;
- chronic kidney disease;
- severe skin conditions;
- epilepsy and mental disorders;
- amputations or organ removal.
Conditions temporarily preventing donation:
- infectious diseases, flu - 2 weeks after recovery;
- tuberculosis - 2 years post-recovery;
- hepatitis A - 1 year;
- tattoos - 6 months;
- surgical procedures - 6 months.
Preparation for blood donation:
Refrain from painkillers and alcohol 72 and 48 hours prior, respectively.
Foods to avoid before donation:
- fatty meats, dairy products, fruits, chips, sugary drinks.
Smokers can donate but should not smoke 2 hours before and 1-2 hours after donation. A light breakfast is recommended before giving blood.
