Exclusive: Doctor Answers Blood Donation FAQs, What You Should Know This World Blood Donor Day

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In a world that often feels divided by differences, blood donation remains one of the few truly selfless acts that unites humanity. It costs nothing but a little time, yet it has the power to give someone a second chance at life. Every drop of blood carries with it hope-for someone in surgery, a child with leukaemia, or a victim of a tragic accident.

When you donate blood, you're not just offering a medical resource-you're offering time, love, and the chance for a miracle. It's a quiet, heroic gesture that goes unnoticed by many, but deeply transforms the lives of those who receive it. In that simple moment of generosity, you become someone's unseen lifeline-and that, perhaps, is the noblest thing one can do.

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Every year on June 14, World Blood Donor Day reminds us that the gift of blood is the gift of life. This year, as we honour the selfless heroes who donate blood to save strangers, we also look at some important questions around this life-saving act.

Whether you're a regular donor or someone considering donating for the first time, here are expert-backed insights you need to know-featuring exclusive input from Dr Devi Prasad Acharya, Consultant, Transfusion Medicine, Manipal Hospitals.

Photo Credit: Dr Devi Prasad Acharya (left)

1. Is Donating Blood Good For The Body?

Yes, donating blood is actually good for one's health. According to Dr. Acharya, 'It reduces stress, improves emotional well-being, benefits physical health, and even provides a sense of belonging and reduces isolation.' Regular blood donation helps the body get rid of excess iron, which in turn supports cardiovascular health.

It also protects the liver by preventing iron overload. Free health screenings provided at the time of donation-such as tests for transfusion-transmitted infections and haemoglobin levels-are another added bonus. Research is also ongoing into other benefits such as lower cancer risk and improved hair growth.

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People who donate blood regularly may develop genetic changes in their blood that are linked to a lower risk of cancer, according to a new study by researchers at the Francis Crick Institute. Scientists described the discovery as "fascinating," suggesting it could provide deeper insight into how blood cancers form-and how they might be prevented, mentions a BBC report.

2. What Is The Rule For Donating Blood?

To be eligible to donate blood, you must meet several health criteria set by national guidelines, such as those established by the National Blood Transfusion Council (NBTC) in India. You must be between 18 and 65 years of age, weigh at least 55 kilograms, and have a haemoglobin level of over 12.5 g/dL.

You must also be free from any transfusion-transmissible infections and be in overall good health. 'These rules are not to restrict donors but to ensure safety for both the donor and the recipient,' says Dr. Acharya. Some people are deferred temporarily-such as those with low haemoglobin or recovering from an illness-while others may be permanently deferred due to certain health conditions or infections like HIV, hepatitis B or C, malaria, and syphilis.

3. Why Is It Important To Donate Blood?

There is no substitute for human blood. Despite advancements in medical science, the demand for blood remains high. 'India faces a shortfall of nearly one and a half million units of blood each year,' Dr. Acharya warns.

This shortage is compounded by challenges like inadequate storage facilities and uneven voluntary donation rates across regions. Many hospitals face delays in transfusion, leading to preventable deaths.

'Disparities in donation are largely due to myths and low awareness,' he adds. Voluntary donations are crucial to ensure that everyone-regardless of their location-has timely access to safe blood.

4. What Is The Disadvantage Of Donating Blood?

Donating blood is generally safe, but there can be minor and temporary side effects. These include dizziness, light-headedness, nausea, mild pain or bruising at the needle site, and in rare cases, fainting or nerve irritation. These reactions, known as vasovagal responses, are usually preventable if donors follow pre- and post-donation care instructions. 'Most adverse reactions are mild and manageable,' says Dr. Acharya, 'and the benefits far outweigh these temporary inconveniences.'

Dr Acharya strongly advocates for breaking myths around donation. 'Blood donation is not weakness-it's empowerment,' he said. 'The most fulfilling part of my work is watching people walk in as strangers and leave as life-savers.' He also pointed out the importance of repeat donors, noting that regular voluntary donors are the safest pool because they donate out of altruism, not obligation.

This year, the theme for World Blood Donor Day 2025 is 'Blood connects us all: share a blood donation, save a life.' A powerful message that highlights the invisible bond between you as a donor and the people you help.

As Dr. Acharya aptly puts it, 'When you donate blood, you're not just giving someone a chance to live-you're telling them their life matters.'
So, whether you're eligible to donate or can simply spread awareness, use this June 14 to be part of the movement. Remember that one unit of blood can save up to three lives. And that makes every drop count.