Every year millions of lives are saved by blood transfusion. But to continue helping those people who are in need of blood transfusion, there is an immediate necessity to build an adequate blood bank. However, only a fraction of people eligible to donate blood actually do so. That's why various health organizations around the world have partnered to bring attention to the need of Donating Blood.
The World Health Organization (WHO) aims to encourage and promote voluntary blood donation. World Blood Donor Day (WBDD) celebrated on 14th June every year across the world is an opportunity to raise global awareness about blood donation. WBDD strongly encourage more people to donate blood at regular intervals. The event is an opportunity to thank voluntary blood donors for helping save lives.
World Blood Donor Day: An Overview
The WHO decided to assign one day every year to recognize volunteer blood donors and raise awareness about the importance of blood donation and named that day the “World Blood Donor Day”. The first WBDD was celebrated on 14th June 2004, and since then, this date became an occasion and celebrated all over the world.
Every year, a theme has been assigned for the WBDD, and for this year it is “Be there for someone else. Give blood. Share life.” The event aims to thank donors for their life-saving donations and to create wider public awareness about the need for regular donation. The event also serves as a way to encourage existing, and potential donors to donate blood at regular intervals, and provide adequate resources to provide quality donor care.
Benefits of Blood Donation
Not only, it’s a noble deed. But, there are a number of health reasons because of which you should also donate blood. On World Blood Donor day 2018, we tell you about the benefits of blood donation.
Improvement in Cardiovascular Health
Donating blood regularly is beneficial to prevent and reduce heart attacks and liver ailment. As per several studies, when there is a rise in the iron level in blood, it raises chances of heart diseases. Donating blood helps in reducing the iron level in the body, which can lessen the probability of heart attacks.
Stimulation of the Development of New Red Blood Cells
When we donate blood, our body starts replenishing the lost red blood cells. This helps in staying healthy and active.
Reduction in the Probability of Cancer Risks
According to a study, it is believed that increased level of iron in the body pave way to risks of ageing and cancer. People who donate blood at regular intervals are at lesser risks of cancers of lung, liver and stomach.
Donating Blood Helps in Burning Calories
This can make a lot of people happy. Donating blood can actually help you burn up to 650 calories. So, if you are overweight, it is highly recommended to donate blood from time to time.
Every time we donate blood, we can end up saving three lives. We don’t have to be a warrior to save someone. A simple act of kindness can also do wonders sometimes.