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1. "I am afraid to give blood"
Everyone feels that way the first time. You will find out later there is nothing to be afraid of. It is safe and simple procedure and there is minimal pain.
2. "I don't have any blood to spare"
The average adult has 4-5 litres of blood. We only remove 300-430 mls of blood with each donation depending on the body weight. This is less than one tenth of the total volume of blood in the body and it will be replaced within 48-72 hours. Healthy people can give blood regularly (every 3 months).
3. "I am afraid of getting diseases from donating blood"
No one will get any diseases from donating blood. The needles used are clean, sterile and disposable. They are also only used once and immediately disposed off.
4. "I think I am anaemic"
Every one who donates blood will have his/her blood tested for its haemoglobin content. Those who are anaemic will not be accepted as blood donors.
5. "I am not healthy enough to donate blood"
Doctors at the site will review your medical history and check your vital signs, which includes pulse and blood pressure, to ensure you are fit to donate blood. In fact, everyone who donates gets a 'mini-physical examination'.
6. "I already gave once this year"
Many donors can give 4 times a year. You may donate blood once every 3 months.
7. "I didn't realise that my blood was needed"
It certainly is. The National Blood Centre requires about 200 units of blood a day to meet the needs of the hospitals' patients.
8. "I am too busy"
The complete donation process takes only about 45 minutes. The actual donation time is about 10 minutes.
9. "Donating blood can make me put on weight"
This is not true unless you eat excessively after blood donation. You don't need to eat excessively after blood donation; you just need a normal diet with iron-rich food (e.g. red meat, spinach etc) or if you like to, the iron tablets given by us.
10. "Other people must be giving blood"
The need for blood and blood products in Singapore is constantly increasing. More donors must meet the needs of patients&. people like you and I.
11. "They can use artificial blood"
Blood cannot be artificially manufactured. It can only come from people. Your gift of blood could mean a new lease of life for a sick child, an accident victim or a patient facing surgery.
12. "My blood isn't the right type"
Every blood group is right when it's needed.
13. "They won't want my blood because of an illness I've had"
If you have any doubts about your medical condition or suitability as a donor, you can always check with the doctor or nurse who will be most happy to answer your questions.
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