Clothes, food, money:you have made donations to improve the daily lives of people in need. This time you want to make a gesture to save lives by donating your blood. What are the conditions to be met? Where can I find a collection point? Here's what you need to know.
Blood donation:why is it so important?
Each year, 1 million patients[1] are cared for thanks to blood donations, i.e. 114 patients per hour. Impressive, yet the French Blood Establishment (EFS) is facing a shortage, especially for groups O-, A-, B-, O+, A+ and B+. Blood reserves are depleted all the more as their conservation has a limited duration.
It is estimated that it takes about 10,000 donations a day to treat the sick. These donations are used to treat many blood diseases as well as cancers (leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma, myelodysplasia, sickle cell disease, etc.). The collected blood is also used in case of haemorrhage.
I want to donate blood:what are the conditions?
Here are some rules to follow to become a donor:
If you have any doubts about your eligibility to donate blood, answer this questionnaire on the official website of the French Blood Establishment.
Blood donation:key figures
Where should I give my blood?
If you are looking for a place to donate your blood, know that you have two options:either you opt for a fixed site, or you decide to donate during mobile and one-off collections. The EFS gives you access to the mapping of collections. All you have to do is fill in your postal code or your city, a period, the type of donation, and you get the list of collection locations as well as the dates.
The app that saves lives!
Download the " Blood donation " app to access your donor space. You will have access to different features:Find collection locations near you. Answer the online questionnaire to find out if you can be a donor. Access all your data (donation history, collection locations, etc.).
What precautions should be taken?
It's D-Day! Here is a short summary of what to expect and the precautions to take!
Before arriving at your blood collection center, remember to eat a snack to avoid discomfort. Contrary to popular belief, it is not recommended to be fasting to donate blood. That said, avoid the consumption of fats and alcoholic beverages the hours before the sample is taken. Before donating your blood, you will have a medical examination with a doctor. During this, you will complete a questionnaire concerning your state of health in order to determine if there are any contraindications to blood donation. Don't forget to bring your ID on D-Day!
It is done ! You gave your blood. Rest for a few minutes (under supervision) and take advantage of the snack offered by the collection center to regain your strength before leaving. On the day of your blood donation, avoid practicing sports or risky activities. Prolonged driving is also not recommended.
A question of health?
Do you have a health question for yourself or one of your loved ones? Do not hesitate to contact your Well-Being Allo Health assistance service. A team is at your disposal and supports you.
A few minutes of your time can really change the life of a sick person. If you would like to be a donor, check your eligibility today, and contact the collection location closest to you.
[1] https://www.gouvernement.fr/risques/donner-son-sang
