What are the criteria’s for donating blood?

The donor must be active and healthy, and should not be suffering from transmittable diseases. Age and weight- The donor must be 18 to 65 years old and should weigh a minimum of 50 kg. Pulse rate is required between 50 and 100 without irregularities. There are several parameters that determine the criteria of an individual to donate blood.

• Had hepatitis
• Are in a high-risk group for AIDS
• Are on specific antibiotics

Other factors include:

• Age factor –Donor must be 17 years old to donate to the general blood . There is no upper age limit for blood donation as long as you are well with no restrictions or limitations to your plan.
• High Blood Pressure-Blood pressure is below 180 systolic (first number) and below 100 diastolic (second number) at the period of donation. Medications for high blood pressure can defer you from donating blood
• Body Piercing-Donor shouldn’t donate if you have had a tongue, nose, belly button or genital piercing in the past 12 months .
• Cold and Flu– if people are suffering from fever or a productive cough .Wait if you do not feel comfortable on the day of donation. Wait until you have completed antibiotic treatment for sinus, throat or lung infection.
• Diabetes-Acceptable as long as it is well controlled, whether medication is taken or not.
• Diet-A meal is suggested at least four hours prior to donation. Drink plenty of fluids.

MSM- This category of population falls under the men who have had physical relation with other men. This category of population are at a higher risk of having HIV, hepatitis B and certain other infections that can be transmitted by transfusion.

Weight: Donors must weigh more than 45 kgs to be eligible to blood donation.

Few major organizations operate in many regions throughout the country while other are regional and operate with local support. Along with conducting blood donation camps, these organizations also raise awareness on voluntary blood donation and public health.