What is eligibility criteria of donating blood?

Eligibility Criteria for Donating Blood

Donating blood is a simple and life-saving act. However, to ensure the safety of both the donor and the recipient, certain criteria must be met. Below are the general eligibility requirements for donating blood:

1. Age
Donors must be at least 18 years old.
The maximum age can vary by country, but most blood donation centers allow donors up to 65 years old, depending on their health and medical history.
2. Weight
Donors should weigh at least 50 kilograms (110 pounds) to donate blood. This ensures that the donor’s body can handle the volume of blood donated.
3. Health Status
Donors must be in good health and feel well at the time of donation.
Individuals with active infections, cold or flu symptoms, or certain chronic conditions may not be eligible to donate.
4. Hemoglobin Level
Donors need to have a sufficient level of hemoglobin (the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen). Typically, men should have a level of 13.0 g/dL, and women should have 12.5 g/dL or higher.
5. Blood Pressure
Blood pressure should be within a normal range. The general guideline is Systolic 90-180 mmHg and Diastolic 50-100 mmHg.
6. Medical History
Individuals with certain medical conditions may be excluded from donating blood. These include, but are not limited to, heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease, or cancer.
People with recent surgeries or medical procedures may also be deferred for a period.
7. Medications
Some medications may disqualify a person from donating blood, either temporarily or permanently. For example, those on blood thinners or antibiotics may be asked to wait until treatment is completed and a safe time period has passed.
8. Frequency of Donation
Whole blood can be donated every 56 days (8 weeks), while platelet donations can be made more frequently (typically every 7 days but no more than 24 times a year).
Plasma donations can be made more frequently, often up to every 28 days.
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