October is Plasma Awareness Month, which celebrates the crucial role plasma plays in providing life-saving transfusions for patients in need.
For many patients plasma is a lifeline – essential for survival. Plasma donations are often necessary for people with chronic conditions requiring regular transfusions, which include trauma, bone marrow failure, cardiac surgery, sickle-cell disease and many more. Without these donations their chances of survival are slim.
The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) highlights the importance of blood or plasma donations with their “Give someone a lifeline” campaign, where a single act of donation can make a difference.
“We are excited to welcome all new and loyal donors this October; it is truly their blood and plasma donations that are a lifeline to patients desperately in need,” said Michelle Vermeulen, WCBS head of the marketing and public relations.
Blood donation takes just 30 minutes and can save up to three lives by breaking whole blood down into three products: red blood cells, plasma and platelets, giving up to three patients a second chance at life. Plasma donation takes about 40 minutes, as this process separates the plasma from your red blood cells which is then returned to your body.
Donors begin with a confidential questionnaire and verify their details. A finger-prick test checks their haemoglobin levels, ensuring they meet the required 12,5 g/dl for women and 13,5 g/dl for men for whole blood. Plasma donation requires a haemoglobin level of between 12 g/dl and 16 g/dl).
A professional nurse conducts a medical screening, checking blood pressure and pulse. Donors then proceed to donate a unit of life-saving blood, followed by delicious juice and biscuits to replenish lost fluids.
Donors must be between 16 and 75 years old, weigh at least 50 kg, be in good general health and live a safe sexual lifestyle. Donors are advised to eat a meal three to four hours before donating and to stay well-hydrated before, during, and after donation.
Plasma donation is available on appointment at a fixed donation centre – Blue Route Mall, Kenilworth Shopping Centre, Long Street, N1 City Shopping Centre and Cape Gate Shopping Centre – from 09:00 to 17:00 on weekdays during the week. Some donation centres offer additional days or different times that can be confirmed online.
“Thank you to all our loyal donors for your commitment and generosity throughout the year, and for giving of yourselves so selflessly,” Vermeulen added.
For more information or to find your closest blood donation clinic, visit www.wcbs.org.za, download the WCBS app, or send a WhatsApp message to 060 549 7244.
