ISLAMABAD: Health experts are urging young people to actively participate in awareness campaigns for “Blood Donation” through social media platforms, particularly in underprivileged areas of the country.
They emphasize the need to debunk common myths and call on stakeholders to invest in improving the existing infrastructure.
District Health Officer Dr. Zaeem stressed the importance of public education in dispelling unfounded myths surrounding blood donation. He highlighted that people often only donate blood in emergency situations, but emphasized that the availability of screened fresh blood is crucial in hospitals on a daily basis, especially for critical patients undergoing major operations or childbirth.
Dr. Zaeem further emphasized the collective responsibility of society to encourage rural residents and young people to embrace the noble act of blood donation, as it is through joint efforts that lives can be saved.
Another senior medical officer, Dr. Amina, affirmed that blood donation is a simple and safe procedure, emphasizing that donated blood can save the lives of those in need while also benefiting the overall health of the donor. She encouraged all eligible individuals to consider making regular blood donations.
Expressing concern, Dr. Amina noted that in Pakistan, people often come forward to donate blood only when unfortunate incidents occur, which sometimes proves to be too late to save lives.
Addressing a query, Dr. Amina explained that the human body naturally replenishes donated blood cells within 6 to 8 weeks. Males can donate blood every six months, while females can donate every eight months.
She also highlighted a common misconception that donating blood leads to weakness or health problems. In reality, the human body is capable of replenishing donated blood within a short period, typically within 24-48 hours.
Dr. Amina advised donors to rest, stay hydrated, and consume nutritious meals after donating blood.
