Regular blood donation is an “anti-ageing therapy” as it promotes fresh blood circulation in the body, haematologists at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi-Araba, have said.
Dr Adeyemo, a Consultant Haematologist, explained that blood donation keeps the bone marrow active, which in turn helps keep individuals younger.
“Blood donation is a process of body renewal because each time an individual donates a pint of blood, the bone marrow becomes more active, creating an opportunity for fresh blood circulation in the body.
“So, if an individual does that regularly, it slows down ageing.
“Blood donation keeps the bone marrow active and once the bone marrow is active, it helps keep the individual younger.
“Also, some evidence shows that regular blood donors may live up to five years longer than those who do not donate regularly, because their bone marrow is continually renewed,” Adeyemo said.
In his remarks, Mr Adeyinka Adewale, Unit Head, Blood Donor Recruitment, Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, LUTH, reiterated the benefits of regular blood donation.
Adewale said that regular blood donation not only reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, stroke and heart attack, but also helps prolong life and reduces excess cholesterol in the body.
He explained that individuals between the ages of 18 and 65 can donate blood at three-month intervals, translating to three to four donations per year.
Adewale underscored the need for more Nigerians to cultivate the habit of voluntary blood donation, calling for increased advocacy, as many people do not understand its importance.
“The benefits of blood donation cannot be overemphasised. Blood is an important resource for both planned treatments and emergency medical interventions.
“It saves lives and helps patients with life-threatening conditions live longer and with improved quality of life. It also supports complex medical and surgical procedures.
“It is very safe for people between 18 and 65 years of age to donate blood three or four times a year,” Adewale said.
He decried Nigeria’s heavy reliance on family replacement donors, where relatives are often compelled to donate blood, and urged people not to wait for emergencies before donating.
According to him, the department responds to invitations for blood donation drives as often as possible.
“The essence of going out to seek blood donations is to supplement the blood generated within the hospital,” he added.
