Celebrating 20 Years of Giving: World Blood Donor Day 2024

Introduction

Every year, countries around the globe come together on June 14 to celebrate World Blood Donor Day (WBDD). This significant day is dedicated to raising awareness about the critical need for safe blood and blood products, and to express our gratitude to the voluntary, unpaid blood donors whose selfless contributions save countless lives.

The Theme for 2024: 20 Years of Celebrating Giving - Thank You, Blood Donors!

This year marks the 20th anniversary of World Blood Donor Day, a milestone to honor and thank blood donors worldwide for their life-saving gifts. It’s a moment to reflect on the profound impact these donations have on both doctors and patients, and to address the ongoing challenges in ensuring the accessibility of safe blood transfusions globally.

Why World Blood Donor Day Matters

World Blood Donor Day is an opportunity to:

• Honor and Thank Donors: Recognize the invaluable contributions of voluntary, unpaid blood donors.
• Raise Public Awareness: Highlight the critical need for regular blood donations.
• Promote Voluntary Donations: Encourage more people to commit to regular blood donation to help save lives.

A Brief History of World Blood Donor Day

World Blood Donor Day was established by the World Health Organization in 2004, during the 58th World Health Assembly. The date, June 14, was chosen to coincide with the birth anniversary of Karl Landsteiner, the Nobel Prize-winning biologist and physician who developed the modern system of blood transfusion and blood groups.

The Significance of Blood Donation

On this day, volunteers from all corners of the world donate their blood and plasma without any expectation of monetary reward. This selfless act creates a safe and sustainable supply of blood and blood products, crucial for saving lives globally.

What Can We do

• Be a voluntary blood donor and an inspiration to others.
• Commit to being a regular donor and give blood throughout the year.
• Encourage your friends and family to become regular blood donors.
• Volunteer with the blood service to reach out to members of your community, provide care to donors, and help manage blood donation sessions/drives.
• Find out your blood type and register as a blood donor.
• Participate in World Blood Donor Day with your social networks.

Five Reasons Why You Should Donate Blood

1. Development of new red blood cells

Within the first 48 hours of blood donation, the donor's body starts replenishing the lost red blood cells. The replenishment process helps in staying healthy and productive at work.

2. Reducing risk of heart disease

As per several studies and reports, when there is a rise in the iron level in blood, it raises the chances of heart diseases. People should donate blood from time to time in order to reduce the iron level in the blood.

3. Burns calories

Donating blood can burn approximately 650 calories for each pint that is like 450 ml of blood.

4. Free blood test

On donating blood, the donor receives a free mini health screening and blood tests.

5. How often can one donate blood?

The minimum time advised between two donations is 3 months. This gap helps blood regain the normal haemoglobin count.

Who can donate blood

The age of the donor must be above 18 years and below 65 years of age. He/she must have a haemoglobin count that is not less than 12.5 g/dl. The Weigh should not less than 45 kgs. One should have a normal body temperature at the time of donation.

You should always drink lots of water before the donation. Also, keep in mind that you should take a well-balanced meal prior to and after donating blood. This will keep you healthy and fit.

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate 20 years of World Blood Donor Day, we also look forward to addressing the challenges that remain in ensuring everyone has access to safe blood transfusions. By promoting a culture of voluntary blood donation, we can continue to build a world where safe blood is available to all who need it.

Let’s take this opportunity to thank blood donors everywhere and commit to supporting this life-saving cause. Your blood can make a difference – it’s the gift of life.