Think you can't donate blood? You probably can—here's why

Even though more people are becoming aware, many eligible individuals still hold back from donating blood, often due to fear, confusion, or simply not having the right information. Doctors emphasize that giving blood is a simple, safe, and life saving action that most healthy people can participate in. By understanding the actual eligibility requirements and dispelling common myths, we can encourage more individuals to step up and truly make a difference in someone’s life.

Common myths that stop people from donating blood
I take medication, so I can’t donateMost medicines don't stop you from giving blood. People are usually allowed to take common medicines like those for diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol, or birth control, or even diabetes if they are under control. It's important to let the staff know what medications you're taking so they can see if you qualify.

I have a tattoo, so I’m not allowedYou can give blood if your tattoo was done at a licensed place with clean needles and ink and it has been at least three months since you got it. This wait time helps make sure there is no chance of getting an infection.

I’m too skinny to donateYou have to weigh at least 45 kg to give blood. You can apply no matter what your body type is as long as you meet the weight requirement and are otherwise healthy.

I’ve had COVID-19, so I can’t donate
If you have recovered from COVID-19 and your symptoms have subsided for at least 14 days, you are eligible to donate blood. You also can't have any symptoms that are still going on or have been around someone with the virus recently.

I have low hemoglobin, or I’m a woman, so I’m not fit to donate
If a woman's hemoglobin level is at least 12.5 g/dL, she can definitely give blood. A simple finger prick test checks your hemoglobin before each donation. If it's low, you'll be told to wait and try again after raising your iron levels.

Who can donate?People who want to give blood must be between 18 and 65 years old, weigh at least 50 kg, and have a hemoglobin level of 12.5 g/dL or higher. The person should be healthy and feel good on the day they donate. Men must wait three months, and women must wait four months between donations.

Why blood donation matters
People who are having surgery, getting cancer treatment, getting trauma care, or have blood disorders like thalassemia or anemia can use donated blood. One unit of blood can save as many as three lives. You can't make blood; you can only get it from donors.

If you see a blood donation camp again, don't hesitate because of doubts or myths. Most people can donate blood, and every unit can save a life. You could be the reason someone lives if you just step in and get screened. Your small act can make a big difference.

Dr. (Brig.) Anil Khetarpal, Deputy Chief - Medical Services & Chairperson -Department of Blood Centre and Transfusion medicine, Artemis Hospitals