The Power of Ten - 10 brilliant benefits of donating blood

Here are ten benefits of donating blood:

1. Saving lives: Donating blood can directly contribute to saving the lives of patients in need, including those undergoing surgeries, trauma victims, individuals with blood disorders, and cancer patients.

2. National Health Service (NHS) support: By donating blood, you help support the National Health Service (NHS) in maintaining an adequate supply of blood for patients across the UK.

3. Health screening: Prior to donating blood, donors undergo a thorough medical examination. This includes checking blood pressure, haemoglobin levels, and screening for infectious diseases, such as HIV, hepatitis, and syphilis. This screening process can help identify potential health issues and provide early detection of certain conditions.

4. Improved blood flow and cardiovascular health: Regular blood donation can help improve blood flow by reducing blood viscosity. This, in turn, can lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes.

5. Reducing iron overload: Regular blood donation can help individuals with conditions like hemochromatosis, a disorder characterized by excessive iron absorption. Donating blood helps reduce iron levels in the body, preventing iron overload complications.

6. Weight management: Donating blood burns calories. While the number of calories burned during donation is not significant, regular blood donation can contribute to weight management and serve as an additional component of an overall healthy lifestyle.

7. Positive psychological impact: Donating blood can bring a sense of fulfilment, satisfaction, and a positive emotional boost. Knowing that your donation can potentially save lives can create a sense of purpose and well-being.

8. Free health check-up: Blood donation centres in the UK provide a free health check-up to potential donors. This includes measuring blood pressure, checking haemoglobin levels, and conducting other basic tests. Regular screenings can help identify any underlying health issues that may require attention.

9. Supporting research and medical advancements: Blood donations are vital for various medical research and advancements, including studying blood-related diseases, developing new treatments, and improving transfusion techniques.

10. Community involvement and giving back: By donating blood, you actively participate in your community and make a positive impact on the lives of others. It fosters a sense of belonging, empathy, and altruism.

Remember, it is crucial to check the specific eligibility criteria set by the NHS Blood and Transplant service before donating blood in the UK.

Note about the author: Andrew Hulbert is a multi-award winning entrepreneur, non-exec director, speaker, author, platelet donor and philanthropist. The ‘Power of Ten’ summarises Andrew’s learnings across the last decade and looks to share some of the valuable mistakes, lessons and learnings during that time. For a succinct summary of Andrew’s career you can visit: https://www.iwfmawards.org/previous-winners/winner-outstanding-contribution-to-workplace-and-facilities-management-2022/. If you’d like to start a conversation, please direct message on Linkedin.