Blood donation: truths, falsehoods and everything about the process

Despite the fact that 60% of the residents of Puerto Rico are eligible to be blood and platelet donors, less than 6% are voluntary donors. With this in mind, experts from the medical community urge citizens to familiarize themselves with the process and consider this life-saving practice.

Next, we explain the process of donating blood, some realities and information about the donation centers:

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Who can or can’t donate?

Regulations have changed and some rules from the past have already been relaxed. Here we explain some truths and falsehoods about who is suitable to donate blood and platelets.

“The weight of the person does not matter, if they have the will they can donate.”

False: A minimum weight of 110 pounds is required to donate.

“Under 16 and 17 years old can donate.”

TRUE: In these cases, the written consent of the parent or guardian is required, along with photo identification. From the age of 18 onwards, the donor can voluntarily come to donate.

“Even if they have a cold, if the person feels well, they can donate.”

False: The donor must be in good health and cannot have a cold.

“The donor must go fasting to donate.”

False: Before donating, the person must eat well and drink water.

“People with diabetes or hypertension can donate.”

TRUE: In both cases, you can donate, if your condition is controlled.

“If the person got a tattoo, piercing or permanent makeup, they cannot donate.”

False: It is already allowed, if it was done in a place regulated by the government and the area is already cured. The blood bank you go to will tell you how long it should have been, but it’s usually several days.

“Pregnant women can donate.”

False: Pregnant women cannot donate.

“People with anemia cannot donate.”

TRUE: If you have low hemoglobin or low iron levels, you cannot donate.

“HIV patients and drug users cannot donate.”

TRUE: In neither case can you donate. In addition, blood products are tested, including for HIV.

“If the person had cancer, they cannot donate.”

False: Survivors of certain types of cancer (leukemia, lymphoma and melanoma) cannot donate, but after one year of remission, patients with other types of cancer can donate.

Blood components of a donation

–red cells: For patients requiring transfusions.

–Plasma: For bleeding disorders, burns and shock victims.

–Platelets: To control bleeding.

–Cryoprecipitate: To prevent or control bleeding.

Where can you donate blood in Puerto Rico?

– Puerto Rico Blood Bank: In Medical Center. Open Monday through Sunday, from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm For information: (787) 777-3535, ext. 6550 or (787) 777-3844.

– Mutual Services Blood Bank: In Guaynabo, Hato King, Bayamon, Fajardo, Caguas and Ponce. Schedules vary. For information: (787) 751-6115 or www.donasangrepr.com.

– Some hospitals in the country they also have their own blood banks.