Have you ever wondered why blood donation is so important? Then you’ve come to the right place! We’ve put together a brief overview of the times when blood transfusions save lives.
What is a blood transfusion?
Let’s start with the basics: what exactly is a blood transfusion? It involves receiving blood or blood components (such as red blood cells, platelets or plasma) intravenously. In Switzerland, an average of 700 donations are used every day!
When do you need a blood transfusion?
There are various complications that can lead to a person needing a transfusion. Here are some of the most common:
Accidents
It’s probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think of transfusion. Whether it’s a minor or serious accident, a transfusion can be vital in saving a life. For injuries, no less than 60 donations or more may be needed!
Operations
During certain operations, such as heart surgery or organ transplants, blood transfusions are necessary to compensate for blood loss. For major operations, 30 or more donations may be required.
Cancers
A large proportion of blood donations are used to treat cancer. In France, more than a third of all donations are used to treat cancer! The reason is that some cancers cause you to bleed internally. What’s more, although chemotherapy destroys cancer cells, it also tends to destroy the cells in the bone marrow where your blood is produced! Transfusions help to make up for this.
Complications of pregnancy
During pregnancy, a number of complications may require a blood transfusion, particularly if the person about to give birth suffers from anaemia. 30 or more donations are required for this type of complication.
Why is it so important to give blood?
As you will have understood from this article, donating blood saves lives! Many transfusions may be needed for an operation, and blood cannot be stored for more than 49 days. In Switzerland, only 2.5% of the population donate blood. That’s why, if you can, we invite you to give blood regularly!
Ready to help?
Here’s how you can easily make a difference!
Become a donor
Go to a blood donation centre near you. It’s quick and easy, and you’ll often leave with a nice little snack! To find out if and where you can donate blood, read our article on blood donation: who can donate, when and why.
Share and raise awareness among your friends and family
Maybe you can’t give blood or don’t feel ready yet. If that’s the case, tell your friends and family! The more people donate, the more lives are saved. Share this article or the Blutspende.ch website on your networks and with your family!
Blood donation and transfusions save lives!
In short, blood transfusions are essential in many situations, from serious accidents to pregnancy and cancer. By becoming a blood donor, you play a crucial role in saving lives.
