Overview
Human lives may be saved via the generous act of donating blood. Donating blood may be done in a number of different ways.
Whole blood donation
Most blood is donated as a whole unit. Around half a liter, or a pint, of whole blood is donated during this session. The red cells, plasma, and on occasion the platelets in the blood are then isolated and processed separately.
Apheresis
When you have an apheresis procedure, your blood will be drawn and processed in a special machine. Red blood cells, plasma, and platelets are all parts of the blood. The leftover blood components are returned to you by the machine.
Eligibility requirements
You must meet the following requirements to donate whole blood, plasma, or platelets:
- fit and healthy.
- The minimum age varies by state but is often between 16 and 17.
- Donations from children with parental consent are permissible in several jurisdictions.
- Although there is no maximum age requirement under law, certain donation facilities may impose their own restrictions.
- Must weigh at least 100 lbs (about 50 kgs).
- Competent in terms of health and fitness, as well as providing a clean medical history.
Donating one kind of blood may have somewhat different criteria than donating another.
Blood Donation Calculator
Types of Blood Groups
