Aside from saving lives, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) on Monday, Sept. 20, underscored the importance of donating blood not only to the recipient but also for the donor.
Citing the World Health Organization (WHO), the PRC said that donating blood has “unexpected benefits” which include improving one’s mental health.
In particular, the PRC noted that donating blood can help reduce stress and enhance emotional well-being.
When a person donates blood, PRC explained that this helps in “minimizing negative thoughts and feelings.” Moreover, it also gives a “sense of belonging” as donating blood also helps reduce feelings of social isolation.
PRC noted that while the ongoing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has made it more difficult to access safe blood and blood products, “there will always be a need for blood.”
Given this, PRC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Senator Richard Gordon encouraged more Filipinos to “donate blood and help save lives.”
PRC said that blood and other blood products are a “critical part” of medical procedures including surgeries, cancer treatments, managing diseases, and disorders.
In order to provide a regular and safe blood supply that is tested for disease and viability, PRC constantly holds regular blood-letting activities.
“Hindi tumitigil ang pangangailangan ng dugo (The need for blood does not stop),” Gordon said. “Donate blood and save lives,” he added.
The PRC, which has over 98 blood facilities nationwide, remains the country’s top provider of “safe and quality” blood.
As of September 2021, PRC said it provides 50 percent of blood needs in the country.
For blood inquiries, interested individuals may contact the PRC Tower (National Blood Center) in Mandaluyong City or the nearest chapters in their areas. For urgent requests, PRC can be reached through 143.
Citing WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus who said that the COVID-19 pandemic is “reminding us once again that mental health is just as important as physical health,” PRC reiterated the need for everyone to pay attention to their overall well-being.
“Apart from the mental health benefits of donating blood, it is good to remember that a single donation can save the lives of up to four people,” PRC said.
RELATED STORY:
https://mb.com.ph/2021/06/29/ph-red-cross-collect-fees-for-blood-find-out-why/