Saving lives one drop at a time

In three seconds—the time it takes to read this sentence— someone will need blood. Although the supply of blood fluctuates, the need for it is constant. On any given day, patients in the United States need approximately 38,000 units of red blood cells.

Pathologists, physicians who treat patients through medical testing to identify and diagnose diseases, also manage the blood inventory at hospitals, ensuring that it is safe for patients to use.

A single unit of blood donated by one person may be used to help several people, yet fewer than 5 percent of eligible, healthy Americans actually donate each year. To be eligible, donors must be in good health and be at least 17 years old. Most blood banks have no upper age restriction. Minimum weight requirements may vary depending upon donation location, but 110 pounds is generally an accepted guideline.

There is no risk of spreading an infection from one donor to another through the donation process. Doctors and nurses use sterile, disposable needles for each new donor. After a needle is used, it is destroyed.

Blood transfusions are often used to replace blood lost by patients during traumas, such as

car accidents. Blood platelets are given to patients with low platelet counts, such as those undergoing chemotherapy. Plasma is used to treat those who have clotting disorders.

Whole blood donors may give blood every eight weeks or 56 days. Other blood components, such as platelets or plasma, may be donated more frequently.

American Red Cross Centers, America’s Blood Centers and hospitals are just three of the many types of locations that accept blood donations.

In addition, churches, businesses, colleges and community organizations often have blood drives.

The College of American Pathologists provides a free Internet service to help remind men and women to schedule their regular blood donations. Becoming a regular blood donor helps prevent blood shortages, especially in times of need such as during the summer months, holidays and natural disasters.

Checking in on the website www.MyHealthTestReminder.com allows donors to select the day they would like to schedule their next blood donation. On the chosen date, they will receive an e-mail message reminding them to call their local blood donation center or hospital to schedule an appointment.

For more information about donating blood, visit the College of American Pathologists at www.cap.org.

This story is provided by North America Precis Syndicate Inc.