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Donate blood! Your donation could be used for a mother who is hemorrhaging during childbirth or perhaps for a baby. It may help to save the life of an accident victim or for a surgical or cancer patient, maybe even a friend or relative.

Do I qualify

to donate blood?

Not everyone can become a donor. The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) has various measures to ensure that their blood supply is safe.

To become a safe blood

donor you must:

Weigh 50 kg or more

Be between the ages of 16 and 65

Be in good health

Lead a sexually safe lifestyle

Consider your blood safe for transfusion

Never donate blood to receive a free HIV test. This places lives at risk. Visit an HIV testing centre, or for an HIV and Aids test, please contact: 0800 012 322 toll free or visit www.aidsinfo.co.za.

Tips before you donate blood

Eat a balanced meal at least 4 hours before you donate blood.

Check the list of reasons why you might not be eligible to donate blood.

If you feel unwell after making a donation or think you may be coming down with an infection, please contact your nearest donor clinic.

The donation process

To complete the process from registration to refreshments, donating blood may take about 30 minutes to an hour. First you will complete a donor questionnaire that will include your personal details. Then you will answer questions regarding to your health and social behaviour in a one-on-one interview with a staff member. Your iron (hemoglobin) level will be checked and your blood pressure and pulse rate will be taken. During the donation process you will donate one unit of blood (480 ml), which your body will quickly replace (in 24 hours through fluid intake). You will also receive refreshments to aid in replacing lost fluid.

Some excuses why people don't donate blood

Many people are afraid of needles or fear pain. There is nothing like facing your fears to overcome them! Some also think they don't have enough blood to spare. The average adult body contains about five liters of blood and a donation is only 480 ml. What if you faint? If you have a substantial meal four hours prior to donating, you should be all right.