According to the American Red Cross, every two seconds someone in the United States needs blood. The Community Blood Center of the Ozarks reports that more than 60,000 blood donations are needed every year in our community alone. Most people have blood to spare, yet there is not enough to go around. By donating blood, you can help save three lives.
Blood drives are all around us - local schools, banks and hospitals host these blood drives often. Every other month, NARMC hosts a blood drive with the help of the Community Blood Center of the Ozarks. This blood is guaranteed to stay in the community at one of the 40 hospitals that Blood Center of the Ozarks provides to. Your chance to save a life of a neighbor is always around the corner. The best part - giving blood not only saves lives, but can also have a positive impact on your own life, as well. Here are a few benefits to giving blood.
When you donate, you receive a free mini checkup.
Before you give blood, a technician will check your temperature, pulse, blood pressure and hemoglobin levels. Once you give blood, it is sent to a lab to be tested for infectious diseases. If any test come back positive, you will be notified. It is recommended that you still get with your doctor for a yearly checkup before you begin to give blood.
Donating blood lowers your risk of cancer. When you donate blood, your iron levels go down. Throughout the weeks to follow, the iron will replenish based on your diet. This helps maintain a steady level of iron in your blood. According to many studies, reducing the iron level in the body is linked with low cancer risk.
Your heart and liver will be healthier if you donate regularly. Studies also show that steady iron levels can improve one’s heart and liver health.
Donors may see weight loss. When donors give regularly, they may see a drop in weight. Donors who are obese and have a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases benefit greatly when they donate blood.
Giving blood can help your mental state. Donating blood on a regular basis can be similar to volunteer work. When you give your time to strangers in need, you are helping save a life. This kind of interaction has major psychological benefits.
Remember, if you are preparing to donate, please be well hydrated and well rested, bring a list of medications you are taking and don’t forget your ID! Donating blood benefits everyone. All of us at NARMC encourage you to help save a life this year. NARMC’s next blood drive is Thursday, March 15 from noon to 6 pm. For an entire list of NARMC’s blood drives, visit narmc.com.