ABU DHABI BLOOD BANK SUPPLIES
Who is in need of blood donations?
■ A number of people end up needing blood donations, including accident and fire victims, anaemic patients, people with blood disorders like thalassaemia, patients undergoing surgery, and cancer patients.
■ Each unit of blood can be separated into several components — red blood cells, plasma, platelets and cryoprecipitate. So, a single donation can save multiple lives. Are there any benefits for the donor?
■ Donating blood may reduce the risk of heart diseases and strokes. It may also stimulate the bone marrow to produce new blood cells and prevent iron accumulation. In addition, the human body compensates the donated volume of blood within 24 hours.
Who can donate blood?
■ Any healthy adult aged 18-65 who weighs at least 50kg can donate.
This includes those who have received Covid-19 vaccines, as long as 14 days have passed after their vaccine shots.
Could I get sick because I have donated blood?
■ It is not possible to acquire any disease because new disposable sterilised equipment is used for each donation at Abu Dhabi blood banks.
How often can I donate blood?
■ Whole blood can be donated every two to three months and donation of plasma or platelets requires only a month’s wait. What do you need to bring to donate blood in Abu Dhabi?
■ Just a valid Emirates ID.
How long does a blood donation session take and what does it involve?
■ The process takes around 45 minutes.
■ A blood withdrawal session removes about 450ml of blood, or eight per cent of total blood volume for an average adult. Donors are then served some refreshments to supply quick energy. The entire process at the Abu Dhabi or Al Ain Blood Bank takes about 45 minutes.
Do I have to take care after a donation session?
■ Donors are advised to drink plenty of fluids for the next 24 hours and to not lift heavy objects. They are also told not to smoke for at least six hours and to avoid being in high places as they may feel dizzy.