World Blood Donor Day

People who donate blood to patients save lives and World Blood Donor Day was established in their honor. Focus on the issue of mutual assistance, the need to be responsive, and awareness about blood donation.

The History

Donation has an ancient history and has been known since times when medicine and science were not yet well developed. The first experiments were conducted on animals, and the process was a success. The definition of blood groups is associated with the outstanding scientist Karl Landsteiner. This discovery helped introduce the transfusion process into the treatment system efficiently. An essential holiday, it first appeared in 2005, a date chosen in line with Landsteiner’s birthday on June 14.

Interesting Facts

Donation is crucial for the functioning of the health care system.

1. Blood consists of cells: erythrocytes, platelets, leukocytes. The essential part is plasma.
2. To inform citizens, public organizations and volunteer associations create events, and print and distribute leaflets.
3. Blood can have a positive or negative Rhesus factor. This characteristic reflects the protein content in red blood cells. Positive factor means compatibility with different types of blood. Negative means compatibility with identical types.
4. Blood has a shelf life. Plasma is stored frozen for a year. Red blood cells remain active for a period of 42 days.
5. There are 8 types of blood; one of them is universal in terms of its combinatorial properties. Person with blood type O is considered a suitable donor for all types.

5 million Americans need blood transfusions every year.

How to take part

Thank medical professionals and scientists specializing in the study of donated blood’s impact on the functioning of bodily systems. This is a huge contribution to science, and a benefit to society. Spread information about Blood Donor Day, become a donor at the nearest branch of the Red Cross, and attract the attention of friends to this public mission.

When is World Blood Donor Day celebrated in 2024?

World Blood Donor Day is observed on June 14 each year.

Observations