It's very possible you’ve never donated blood. In the many countries, about 65% of the population is eligible to donate, but only about 5% do so. Some people say they’re too busy. Others are afraid of needles, they don't want to feel sick afterwards, or they're concerned about catching a disease. But the process of giving blood is completely safe, and after you do it once, you’ll feel so good about it you’ll probably want to do it again.

Here are some good reasons to consider donating:

• Just one pint or about half a liter of blood can help save several lives.
• The average heart surgery patient needs about six pints of blood. 
• A burn victim may need 20 pints of platelets during treatment.
• One out of 10 hospital patients needs blood.
• Donating blood may prevent heart attacks.

You probably already know about the need for blood, especially during the winter holidays and summer when accident rates go up. But do you know what’s in it for you?

• A free physical exam that includes a blood pressure, pulse, and temperature check.
• Test for anemia (low iron level in the blood).
• Blood type analysis.
• Cholesterol test.
• The knowledge that you’re saving a life.

There is no cost for any of these tests. In addition, before your blood or any part of it is used, it’s tested. You will be notified if the results are positive indicators for any of the following diseases.

• HIV (the virus that causes AIDS)
• Hepatitis B or C
• Syphilis
• Adult T-cell leukemia

Your blood will also be tested for liver enzymes which, if elevated, could indicate a type of hepatitis that is otherwise undetectable. Other tests may also be conducted. You will be notified only if test results are positive, and that means you can start treatment for a disease you might not otherwise know you have.

The procedure itself takes about 10-20 minutes, and you’ll probably spend less than an hour at the mobile blood bank or center. You’ll be asked to fill out a simple registration form, you'll answer a few questions about your health, and a nurse will conduct your physical exam. You will then be escorted to a special bed and asked which arm you prefer. If you have no preference, the nurse or phlebotomist will examine your veins and decide which one is best. Your arm will be washed carefully with an antiseptic. The nurse will tie a tourniquet around your upper arm and ask you to clench your fist to increase the blood flow. Then a sterile, unused needle will be inserted. Special adhesive tape secures the needle, and the blood flows through a tube to a blood bag. When the bag is full, the nurse will clamp the tube, withdraw the needle from your arm, and place a small bandage over the needle mark. You’ll have some fruit juice and a snack, and you’ll be asked to relax for a few minutes before you get up.

It’s a quick, simple, and relatively-painless procedure. Here are some common questions.

Q: Does it hurt?

A: A little, but just for a moment. Some people think it feels like a small bug bite. It doesn’t hurt at all after the needle is in place.

Q: Can I get AIDS or any other disease from donating?

A: No. A new, sterile needle is used for each donor. Afterwards, the needle is destroyed.

Q: Will I feel dizzy or weak?

A: Some people may feel a little unsteady. But that is often just from feeling nervous. People who donate regularly say they don’t feel a bit different and they go right back to work.

Q: Isn’t that a lot of blood to take out at one time?

A: Not really. Most adults of average size have about 10 to 12 pints of blood that is quickly replenished.

Q: What should I do after the donation?

A: You will be given instructions at the blood center. The most important things you should do are to drink more liquids than usual, eat a good meal, don’t smoke or chew tobacco (if you do) for 30 minutes, and don’t drink alcoholic beverages that day. You can resume normal activity in a half-hour, but avoid anything strenuous.

Most people, as long as they are 16-17 years old (rules vary by country) and at least 110 lbs (about 50kg) can donate. Unfortunately there are some who may not. In the United States, Canada, and Australia, restrictions have been placed on donors as a precautionary measure against the spread of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, the human form of "Mad Cow" disease. In general, potential donors who have lived in the United Kingdom for a total of six months or more between 1980 and 1996 may not donate. In the United States, restrictions on people who have lived in France, Portugal, or Ireland are also under consideration. Restrictions vary in each country and may change. 

If you’re thinking of donating, good for you! There's no special preparation required, but you should eat a well-balanced meal and drink plenty of fluids beforehand. You might also consider writing down the names of any medications you take, since you will be asked about them.

Remember, the gift of blood may save someone's life.