By: Emory Waye, Contributing Writer

Giving blood is a familiar concept to many people; however, in the United States, 97% of eligible residents have not donated blood before. A blood donation takes around an hour to complete, and it can help people with chronic illnesses, cancer, and traumatic injuries. A small amount of time out of your day could be a life-saving treatment for up to three people in need. 

Who can donate blood?

Most people are able to donate, as long as they meet the following requirements:

Whole Blood Donation

1. You must be 18 years old or 16 years old with written consent from a parent. 
2. You must be feeling well/healthy.
3. You must be at least 110 lbs.

Red Blood Cell Donation

1. You must be feeling well/healthy.
2. Male donors must be at least 17 years old in most states, 5’1” and 130 lbs.
3. Female donors must be at least 19 years old, 5’3” and 150 lbs.

Platelet Donation

1. You must be feeling well/healthy.
2. You must be at least 17 years old in most states.
3. You must weigh at least 110 lbs.

AB Plasma Donation

1. You must have type AB blood.
2. You must be feeling well/healthy.
3. You must be at least 17 years old.
4. You must be at least 110 lbs.

There are some limitations concerning people who have recently traveled to countries with a high risk of malaria, have low iron, or are on certain medications. However, if you are unsure about your eligibility to donate, consult a medical professional. Most people who are generally healthy are able to donate, but there may be a waiting period before they can safely give blood. More information can be found on the Red Cross website.

Why Give Blood?

The need for blood transfusions and donations is constant. In the United States, someone needs blood or platelets every 2 seconds. Blood donations are used for cancer patients, surgeries, burn survivors, individuals with viral and chronic illnesses, and those who have suffered a traumatic injury or accident. In a severe accident, someone may need up to 100 units of blood. Blood can also only be stored for 5 days,  making the need for it even more urgent. Blood shortages can delay care for patients or even put their lives at risk.

Tips for Donating

You can find a location and time to give blood by using the find a drive search tool on the Red Cross website. In Mobile, donation trucks can be found parked around South’s campus or in the parking lots of grocery stores around town. Before you donate, try to get a good night’s sleep and drink plenty of water. Eat filling, iron-rich foods before donating. Some people may faint or feel a bit lightheaded when giving blood, but doing these things prior to giving will reduce the likelihood of that. If you do begin to feel lightheaded, you will be surrounded by professionals who are prepared to assist and have likely helped many others in the same situation. Be sure to inform the medical staff immediately if you feel unwell.

When you show up to donate, be sure to bring a valid ID and donor card if you have one. You will also need to provide information on medicines you are currently taking. It may be helpful to wear a short sleeved, or loose shirt that can be pulled up to your shoulder, as the blood will be drawn from your forearm, usually in front of your elbow. While the entire process of donating, including medical screening and registration takes around an hour, the actual donation only takes 8-10 minutes. After your donation, you will usually be given a refreshment in the recovery area. For the rest of the day, you should be sure to drink plenty of additional liquids, and try to avoid any rigorous activity as your body is replenishing your plasma and red blood cells.