Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

Easing Chronic Lower Back Pain And Painkiller Usage With 2 Therapies

Lower back pain is a constant issue for many people. While it may seem like a minor inconvenience to some, it can severely impact their quality of life. For people who are suffering from ongoing back pain, finding relief can be incredibly challenging. 

While there are medications available, there are side-effects one must consider. However, new research suggests that two types of therapy might offer a promising solution, especially for those who have been relying on opioid medications. 

<h2>Therapies Show Promise for Opioid Users </h2>

A study published April 7 in JAMA Network Open found that mindfulness-based therapy (MBT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) significantly improved the quality of life for people managing chronic low back pain with opioids. Participants reported less pain and were able to reduce their opioid dosages in the months following the start of these therapies. 

Researchers noted that the participants had lived with moderate to severe back pain for a long time, most for over five years, and had tried many other treatments without success. The improvements seen were therefore even more significant. 

<h2>Addressing a Common and Stubborn Problem </h2>

Chronic low back pain affects a large number of people; data suggests that as many as 28% of Americans experience it. Despite its prevalence, effective treatments are often hard to come by. One study in March found that only 10% of non-surgical treatments for lower back pain actually work. This led researchers to explore whether CBT and MBT could offer a better approach. 

<strong>Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) </strong>helps patients identify negative thoughts and behaviors, then uses problem-solving and self-reflection to change those patterns. 

<strong>Mindfulness-Based Therapy (MBT) </strong>teaches people to observe their bodily sensations, feelings, and thoughts without reacting to them, often through meditation to focus on the present moment. 

<h2>Promising Results from the Study </h2>

The study involved 770 adults who were using opioids for their chronic low back pain. On average, participants were about 58 years old and experienced moderate-to-severe pain, limitations in their daily activities, and a reduced quality of life.

Half of the participants received CBT, and the other half received MBT. They attended weekly two-hour group sessions for eight weeks. After this, they were encouraged to practice what they learned for 30 minutes daily, six days a week, for the remainder of the 12-month study. Although about 30% of participants dropped out by the six-month mark, those who continued reported: 

<ul><li>Less pain.</li><li>Reduced daily opioid use.</li><li>Better daily function.</li><li>Improved quality of life.</li></ul>

These benefits lasted throughout the year, with over 65% of participants still reporting progress at the 12-month mark. Dr. Zgierska highlighted that chronic back pain usually doesn't get better on its own, often worsening over time, which makes these lasting improvements particularly striking. Since both therapies showed similar positive results, people can confidently choose the approach that best suits them, whether it's the structured nature of CBT or the mindfulness focus of MBT. Both in-person and online formats were found to be effective. 

<h2>Supporting Evidence and Future Needs </h2>

While this JAMA Network Open study didn't include a control group or have much racial and ethnic diversity among its participants, its findings align with other research suggesting that behavioral therapies can help adults using opioids for chronic pain. 

It's important to note that this area still needs more research. Only 17 studies have looked at MBT for chronic low back pain, and only three have directly compared it to CBT. However, previous studies have shown that both MBT and CBT are generally effective for pain relief, even if they haven't always included people on opioids for chronic back pain. The fact that this new research shows they help in more severe cases (with opioid use) further strengthens these findings. 

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Lower back pain is a constant issue for many people. While it may seem like a minor inconvenience to some, it can severely impact their quality of life. For people who are suffering from ongoing back pain, finding relief can be incredibly challenging. While there are medications available, there are side-effects one must consider. However, new research suggests that two types of therapy might offer a promising solution, especially for those who have been relying on opioid medications. Therapies Show Promise for Opioid Users A study published April 7 in JAMA Network Open found that mindfulness-based therapy (MBT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) significantly improved the quality of life for people managing chronic low back pain with opioids. Participants reported less pain and were able to reduce their opioid dosages in the months following the start of these therapies. Researchers noted that the participants had lived with moderate to severe back pain for a long time, most for over five years, and had tried many other treatments without success. The improvements seen were therefore even more significant. Addressing a Common and Stubborn Problem Chronic low back pain affects a large number of people; data suggests that as many as 28% of Americans experience it. Despite its prevalence, effective treatments are often hard to come by. One study in March found that only 10% of non-surgical treatments for lower back pain actually work. This led researchers to explore whether CBT and MBT could offer a better approach. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps patients identify negative thoughts and behaviors, then uses problem-solving and self-reflection to change those patterns. Mindfulness-Based Therapy (MBT) teaches people to observe their bodily sensations, feelings, and thoughts without reacting to them, often through meditation to focus on the present moment. Promising Results from the Study The study involved 770 adults who were using opioids for their chronic low back pain. On average, participants were about 58 years old and experienced moderate-to-severe pain, limitations in their daily activities, and a reduced quality of life.Half of the participants received CBT, and the other half received MBT. They attended weekly two-hour group sessions for eight weeks. After this, they were encouraged to practice what they learned for 30 minutes daily, six days a week, for the remainder of the 12-month study. Although about 30% of participants dropped out by the six-month mark, those who continued reported: Less pain.Reduced daily opioid use.Better daily function.Improved quality of life.These benefits lasted throughout the year, with over 65% of participants still reporting progress at the 12-month mark. Dr. Zgierska highlighted that chronic back pain usually doesn't get better on its own, often worsening over time, which makes these lasting improvements particularly striking. Since both therapies showed similar positive results, people can confidently choose the approach that best suits them, whether it's the structured nature of CBT or the mindfulness focus of MBT. Both in-person and online formats were found to be effective. Supporting Evidence and Future Needs While this JAMA Network Open study didn't include a control group or have much racial and ethnic diversity among its participants, its findings align with other research suggesting that behavioral therapies can help adults using opioids for chronic pain. It's important to note that this area still needs more research. Only 17 studies have looked at MBT for chronic low back pain, and only three have directly compared it to CBT. However, previous studies have shown that both MBT and CBT are generally effective for pain relief, even if they haven't always included people on opioids for chronic back pain. The fact that this new research shows they help in more severe cases (with opioid use) further strengthens these findings. 

easing chronic lower back pain and painkiller usage with 2 therapies

Ishita Roy

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Cervical cancer, though almost entirely preventable, continues to claim over 350,000 lives each year — most of them women in developing countries. India carries one of the heaviest burdens. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Science has handed us the tools — vaccines, DNA-based screening, and effective treatments. The real hurdle? Making sure these solutions reach everyone, regardless of gender, geography, or income.

<h4>Understanding <span rel="noindex">HPV</span>: The Root Cause</h4>

At the heart of the cervical cancer crisis is the <span>Human Papillomavirus</span> (HPV), one of the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide. Most HPV infections resolve on their own. But when certain high-risk genotypes persist, they can lead to various cancers — not just cervical, but also anal, penile, vulvar, vaginal, and oropharyngeal.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), virtually all cervical cancer cases are caused by HPV. Every eight minutes, a woman in India dies of this disease — a stark statistic for something that could be prevented with timely vaccination and screening.

<h4>HPV Affects Men Too — And We’re Ignoring It</h4>

While cervical cancer has gained some attention, HPV-related cancers in men remain dangerously underdiagnosed. In 2019 alone, over 70,000 cancer cases in men were caused by HPV — a number many experts say is underestimated.

This was underscored by a recent study presented at the 10th Asia Pacific AIDS and Co-Infections Conference in Japan. Conducted by Dr Prapti Gilada-Toshinwal at a Mumbai clinic, it screened 105 men who have sex with men. The findings were worrying — 62% had anal HPV infections, rising to nearly 69% among those living with HIV. Many were also battling other sexually transmitted infections, pointing to an urgent need for integrated sexual health services.

<h4>Why DNA Screening is a Gamechanger</h4>

Globally, experts agree that the best way to detect HPV is through DNA-based molecular tests. Traditional screening methods like Pap smears or VIA (Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid) are no longer considered scientifically adequate.

Yet, India’s most recent National Family Health Survey revealed that only 1.2% of women aged 15–49 had ever been screened for cervical cancer. WHO recommends that 70% of eligible women should be screened — a target India is far from achieving.

In a promising development, April 2025 saw the validation of Truenat HPV-HR Plus, India’s first indigenous point-of-care HPV DNA test. Developed by Molbio Diagnostics and approved by leading institutions like AIIMS Delhi and ICMR’s research bodies, Truenat can detect eight high-risk HPV genotypes responsible for most cervical cancers. It’s fast, affordable, and adaptable for rural clinics — exactly the kind of innovation needed to scale up screening access.

<h4>The Vaccine That Works — Even in a Single Dose</h4>

Vaccination remains our most powerful tool. A WHO-IARC study, led in part by Indian researcher Dr Smita Joshi, revealed that even one dose of the HPV vaccine offers strong protection. This has led to WHO recommending a single-dose vaccine schedule for young girls.

India’s own vaccine, Ceravac, developed by the Serum Institute, is approved for boys as well. Yet, a national rollout remains pending, even as a few states like Delhi and Punjab have begun pilot programs.

Activists like Vijay Nair of Udaan Trust stress the need to include men in both vaccination and screening programs. Anal cancers are often missed or misdiagnosed in men, especially those from marginalized communities. Without proper diagnostic facilities like anoscopy centres and broader awareness, many are left untreated — or worse, undiagnosed.

The WHO has set ambitious targets to eliminate cervical cancer: vaccinate 90% of girls by age 15, screen 70% of women by 35 and 45, and treat 90% of cases. But meeting these goals demands more than science — it needs political will, public funding, and sustained awareness.

human papillomavirus

health and wellness

men have HPV

HPV disease

Cervical cancer, though almost entirely preventable, continues to claim over 350,000 lives each year — most of them women in developing countries. India carries one of the heaviest burdens. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Science has handed us the tools — vaccines, DNA-based screening, and effective treatments. The real hurdle? Making sure these solutions reach everyone, regardless of gender, geography, or income.Understanding HPV: The Root CauseAt the heart of the cervical cancer crisis is the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), one of the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide. Most HPV infections resolve on their own. But when certain high-risk genotypes persist, they can lead to various cancers — not just cervical, but also anal, penile, vulvar, vaginal, and oropharyngeal.According to the World Health Organization (WHO), virtually all cervical cancer cases are caused by HPV. Every eight minutes, a woman in India dies of this disease — a stark statistic for something that could be prevented with timely vaccination and screening.HPV Affects Men Too — And We’re Ignoring ItWhile cervical cancer has gained some attention, HPV-related cancers in men remain dangerously underdiagnosed. In 2019 alone, over 70,000 cancer cases in men were caused by HPV — a number many experts say is underestimated.This was underscored by a recent study presented at the 10th Asia Pacific AIDS and Co-Infections Conference in Japan. Conducted by Dr Prapti Gilada-Toshinwal at a Mumbai clinic, it screened 105 men who have sex with men. The findings were worrying — 62% had anal HPV infections, rising to nearly 69% among those living with HIV. Many were also battling other sexually transmitted infections, pointing to an urgent need for integrated sexual health services.Why DNA Screening is a GamechangerGlobally, experts agree that the best way to detect HPV is through DNA-based molecular tests. Traditional screening methods like Pap smears or VIA (Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid) are no longer considered scientifically adequate.Yet, India’s most recent National Family Health Survey revealed that only 1.2% of women aged 15–49 had ever been screened for cervical cancer. WHO recommends that 70% of eligible women should be screened — a target India is far from achieving.A Made-in-India BreakthroughIn a promising development, April 2025 saw the validation of Truenat HPV-HR Plus, India’s first indigenous point-of-care HPV DNA test. Developed by Molbio Diagnostics and approved by leading institutions like AIIMS Delhi and ICMR’s research bodies, Truenat can detect eight high-risk HPV genotypes responsible for most cervical cancers. It’s fast, affordable, and adaptable for rural clinics — exactly the kind of innovation needed to scale up screening access.The Vaccine That Works — Even in a Single DoseVaccination remains our most powerful tool. A WHO-IARC study, led in part by Indian researcher Dr Smita Joshi, revealed that even one dose of the HPV vaccine offers strong protection. This has led to WHO recommending a single-dose vaccine schedule for young girls.India’s own vaccine, Ceravac, developed by the Serum Institute, is approved for boys as well. Yet, a national rollout remains pending, even as a few states like Delhi and Punjab have begun pilot programs.Prevention Must Be InclusiveActivists like Vijay Nair of Udaan Trust stress the need to include men in both vaccination and screening programs. Anal cancers are often missed or misdiagnosed in men, especially those from marginalized communities. Without proper diagnostic facilities like anoscopy centres and broader awareness, many are left untreated — or worse, undiagnosed.The WHO has set ambitious targets to eliminate cervical cancer: vaccinate 90% of girls by age 15, screen 70% of women by 35 and 45, and treat 90% of cases. But meeting these goals demands more than science — it needs political will, public funding, and sustained awareness.

why indian men are at hpv risk?

These Twins Were Diagnosed With Same Cancer, Just A Month Apart

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<span>Twins</span> or multiple births are a rare occurrence. According to Twins Trust the likelihood of giving birth to twins is about one in 250, which is about 0.5%. While being a twin may be rare, them experiencing the same illness may cause many people to be shocked. 

Ryan and Sean Collard, twin brothers from Hetton-Le-Hole, faced the same devastating cancer diagnosis within months of each other. Both have bravely overcome the disease and are now using their experiences to help other men. They've launched a men's health page dedicated to raising awareness about testicular cancer and offering support to young men going through similar struggles. 

<h2>Ryan's Fight: Dismissed and Diagnosed </h2>

Ryan, who is now a primary school teacher, recalls being initially dismissed by a doctor who told him he was "too young" for cancer when he first reported his symptoms. He had severe issues, including passing out multiple times a day and half his body going numb, which eventually led to him being rushed to the hospital twice. 

After pushing for answers through multiple appointments, Ryan, at just 23, was finally diagnosed with stage three choriocarcinoma, an aggressive form of testicular cancer. He shared on their joint Instagram page, 'Cancer Lads,' how frustrating it was to be initially brushed off. 

<h2>Sean's Diagnosis and Their Shared Mission </h2>

Just as Ryan was recovering from his aggressive cancer, his twin brother, Sean, received his own devastating diagnosis of a less aggressive form of testicular cancer. Sean underwent surgery and chemotherapy and has since gone on to have two children. Ryan, now 31, is also married with a son, thanks to fertility treatment. 

Ryan emphasized the power of connection, telling Chronicle Live, "It was only when I met other men who had a similar lived experience I felt really able to talk freely and feel properly understood. That is why I started an Instagram account." He wanted to create a space where others could find that same sense of understanding and release emotions. 

<h2><span rel="noindex">Twins And Health Issues</span> </h2>

There has always been a great interest in surrounding twins and their health. Questions like, ‘do both twins get affected if one of them sick?’ often occur to people. A 2023 study published in the Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica. It shows that twins do face a higher risk of health complications compared to singletons, due to their risk of being born earlier. 

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, more than 60% of twins, and almost all higher-order multiples (like triplets or quadruplets), are born early, which means before 37 weeks of pregnancy. The more babies there are, the earlier they tend to arrive. 

Babies from multiple pregnancies have about double the risk of being born with certain problems, including issues with the spine and brain (like spina bifida), digestive system, and heart. 

Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS) is also a cause of concern. This serious condition only happens with identical twins who share a single placenta. In about 15% of these cases, blood vessels in the placenta connect in a way that one twin gets too much blood (the "recipient"), and the other twin doesn't get enough (the "donor"). This can overload the recipient twin's heart and lead to too much amniotic fluid, while the donor twin will have very little fluid.

<h2>Why Talking Matters: A Call for Men to Speak Up </h2>

The brothers' story highlights a critical issue: men often delay seeking help for health concerns. Data from Macmillan confirms this, showing that nearly half (48%) of men in their 30s admit they wait for health problems to disappear on their own. This figure is twice as high as men aged 60 or over, underscoring the vital importance for men, especially younger ones, to open up and talk about their health. 

Twins Diagnosed With Cancer

twins

Twins Were Diagnosed With Same Cancer

twins health

twins health issues

Twins And Health Issues

Twins or multiple births are a rare occurrence. According to Twins Trust the likelihood of giving birth to twins is about one in 250, which is about 0.5%. While being a twin may be rare, them experiencing the same illness may cause many people to be shocked. Ryan and Sean Collard, twin brothers from Hetton-Le-Hole, faced the same devastating cancer diagnosis within months of each other. Both have bravely overcome the disease and are now using their experiences to help other men. They've launched a men's health page dedicated to raising awareness about testicular cancer and offering support to young men going through similar struggles. Ryan's Fight: Dismissed and Diagnosed Ryan, who is now a primary school teacher, recalls being initially dismissed by a doctor who told him he was "too young" for cancer when he first reported his symptoms. He had severe issues, including passing out multiple times a day and half his body going numb, which eventually led to him being rushed to the hospital twice. After pushing for answers through multiple appointments, Ryan, at just 23, was finally diagnosed with stage three choriocarcinoma, an aggressive form of testicular cancer. He shared on their joint Instagram page, 'Cancer Lads,' how frustrating it was to be initially brushed off. Sean's Diagnosis and Their Shared Mission Just as Ryan was recovering from his aggressive cancer, his twin brother, Sean, received his own devastating diagnosis of a less aggressive form of testicular cancer. Sean underwent surgery and chemotherapy and has since gone on to have two children. Ryan, now 31, is also married with a son, thanks to fertility treatment. Ryan emphasized the power of connection, telling Chronicle Live, "It was only when I met other men who had a similar lived experience I felt really able to talk freely and feel properly understood. That is why I started an Instagram account." He wanted to create a space where others could find that same sense of understanding and release emotions. Twins And Health Issues There has always been a great interest in surrounding twins and their health. Questions like, ‘do both twins get affected if one of them sick?’ often occur to people. A 2023 study published in the Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica. It shows that twins do face a higher risk of health complications compared to singletons, due to their risk of being born earlier. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, more than 60% of twins, and almost all higher-order multiples (like triplets or quadruplets), are born early, which means before 37 weeks of pregnancy. The more babies there are, the earlier they tend to arrive. Babies from multiple pregnancies have about double the risk of being born with certain problems, including issues with the spine and brain (like spina bifida), digestive system, and heart. Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS) is also a cause of concern. This serious condition only happens with identical twins who share a single placenta. In about 15% of these cases, blood vessels in the placenta connect in a way that one twin gets too much blood (the "recipient"), and the other twin doesn't get enough (the "donor"). This can overload the recipient twin's heart and lead to too much amniotic fluid, while the donor twin will have very little fluid. Why Talking Matters: A Call for Men to Speak Up The brothers' story highlights a critical issue: men often delay seeking help for health concerns. Data from Macmillan confirms this, showing that nearly half (48%) of men in their 30s admit they wait for health problems to disappear on their own. This figure is twice as high as men aged 60 or over, underscoring the vital importance for men, especially younger ones, to open up and talk about their health. 

these twins were diagnosed with same cancer, just a month apart

Tanya Dutt

World Blood Donor Day 2025: Thinking of Donating Blood? A Doctor Answers All Your Doubts

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World Blood Donor Day 2025: Theme, Significance, And History

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Every two seconds, someone in the world needs blood—but far too few people step forward to donate. Whether it’s for accident victims, cancer patients, or those undergoing major surgeries, the demand for safe, healthy blood is constant and often urgent. Yet many potential donors hesitate, held back by fear, misinformation, or uncertainty. On <span>World Blood Donor Day</span> and beyond, it’s time to break down those doubts, understand the life-saving impact of one donation, and discover how giving blood could be easier—and more rewarding—than you think.

While <span>blood donation</span> is widely regarded as an act of altruism, what often goes unnoticed is the remarkable impact it has—not just on the recipients, but also on the donors themselves. Despite major awareness campaigns, myths and fears still prevent a significant portion of eligible individuals from rolling up their sleeves.

Every single blood donation has the potential to save up to three lives. According to Dr. Lopita Bhattacharya, a medical officer blood bank at BM Birla Heart Hospital, “One pint of donated blood is separated into red cells, plasma, and platelets, each of which can be administered to patients based on individual needs—be it trauma victims, cancer patients, surgical patients, or those with chronic blood disorders.”

At any NABH-accredited blood bank, no part of donated blood goes to waste. “Safety, accuracy, and quality are given utmost priority. The entire process is handled with the latest technology and rigorous screening,” she adds.

Dr. Umakant Mokalikar, Blood Centre Incharge at Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune echoes the sentiment. “There is no substitute for human blood. Every donor plays a vital role in the healthcare system, especially in emergencies. Blood donation is truly a humanitarian act.”

<h2>Busting Common Myths Around Blood Donation</h2>

Despite awareness, misinformation continues to hinder blood donation drives. Experts say that correcting these myths is the first step to building a more robust and reliable donor base.

<h4>Myth 1: Blood donation makes you weak.</h4>

Fact: “The fluid components are replaced within 24 hours, and red blood cells regenerate within weeks,” says Dr. Bhattacharya. Healthy men can safely donate every 3 months; women, every 4 months.

<h4>Myth 2: The process is painful or too time-consuming.</h4>

Fact: “The blood draw itself only takes 8–10 minutes. Including the screening and post-donation rest, the entire visit wraps up in under 45 minutes,” Dr. Bhattacharya clarifies.

<h4>Myth 3: Only rare blood types are needed.</h4>

Fact: Common blood types are often in higher demand due to their compatibility across patient populations. “Every blood type is essential—be it for surgeries, maternity care, or injuries,” she notes.

<h4>Myth 4: Older adults or thin individuals should not donate.</h4>

Fact: If you're between 18–65 years, in good health, and meet minimum weight and hemoglobin thresholds, you’re eligible. First-time donors can donate until age 60.

<h4>Myth 5: Women can't donate blood.</h4>

Fact: “Aside from temporary conditions like menstruation or lactation, women can and should donate blood if they meet eligibility,” Dr. Mokalikar emphasizes.

<h4>Myth 6: Blood donation may cause infections.</h4>

Fact: The process uses sterile, one-time-use equipment. “There’s zero risk of catching infections,” he reassures.

<h2>Are There Any Health Benefits for Donors?</h2>

Donating blood is not just a selfless gesture; it comes with tangible health perks.

Improved heart health: “Regular donation helps lower iron overload in the body, which is linked to reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases,” Dr. Bhattacharya shares.

Calorie burn: One blood donation session can burn around 600–650 calories, similar to a light workout.

Stimulates red blood cell production: “Donation encourages bone marrow to generate fresh red cells, helping keep your circulatory system active,” she explains.

A mini health screening: Donors undergo blood pressure, hemoglobin, and pulse checks. Blood is also screened for infections like HIV, Hepatitis B &amp; C, providing an early warning system for the donor’s own health.

Mental well-being: “The psychological benefit—knowing you’ve potentially saved lives—releases endorphins and improves mood,” adds Dr. Mokalikar.

<h2>What Happens To Your Body After Donating Blood?</h2>

Once donated, your blood is processed into three core components:

Packed Red Blood Cells (PRBCs): Used in trauma, surgeries, and patients with anemia or cancer.

Platelet Concentrates: Vital for patients with clotting disorders, infections, or undergoing chemotherapy.

Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP): Used in patients with liver failure or bleeding disorders.

This separation maximizes the utility of a single donation—reaching three different patients with three different medical needs.

According to WHO, less than 1% of the eligible population donates blood in many countries—a number that needs urgent improvement. “If more people come forward regularly, hospitals will have the reserves to act swiftly during crises like accidents, natural disasters, or major surgeries,” urges Dr. Mokalikar.

He adds, “Blood donation is not a one-time favor. Men can donate every 3 months, and women every 4 months. Routine donations help keep blood stocks consistent and reliable.”

Blood donation is one of the most powerful acts of human kindness, and one of the simplest. The entire process—from screening to actual donation and rest—takes less than an hour but leaves a lasting impact. As Dr. Bhattacharya puts it, “It’s free, it’s safe, and it helps others while improving your own health. Why wait?”

blood donation

blood donation myths

benefits of donating blood

first-time blood donor tips

world blood donor day

blood donation facts

safe blood donation

health benefits of donating blood

Every two seconds, someone in the world needs blood—but far too few people step forward to donate. Whether it’s for accident victims, cancer patients, or those undergoing major surgeries, the demand for safe, healthy blood is constant and often urgent. Yet many potential donors hesitate, held back by fear, misinformation, or uncertainty. On World Blood Donor Day and beyond, it’s time to break down those doubts, understand the life-saving impact of one donation, and discover how giving blood could be easier—and more rewarding—than you think.While blood donation is widely regarded as an act of altruism, what often goes unnoticed is the remarkable impact it has—not just on the recipients, but also on the donors themselves. Despite major awareness campaigns, myths and fears still prevent a significant portion of eligible individuals from rolling up their sleeves.Every single blood donation has the potential to save up to three lives. According to Dr. Lopita Bhattacharya, a medical officer blood bank at BM Birla Heart Hospital, “One pint of donated blood is separated into red cells, plasma, and platelets, each of which can be administered to patients based on individual needs—be it trauma victims, cancer patients, surgical patients, or those with chronic blood disorders.”At any NABH-accredited blood bank, no part of donated blood goes to waste. “Safety, accuracy, and quality are given utmost priority. The entire process is handled with the latest technology and rigorous screening,” she adds.Dr. Umakant Mokalikar, Blood Centre Incharge at Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune echoes the sentiment. “There is no substitute for human blood. Every donor plays a vital role in the healthcare system, especially in emergencies. Blood donation is truly a humanitarian act.”Busting Common Myths Around Blood DonationDespite awareness, misinformation continues to hinder blood donation drives. Experts say that correcting these myths is the first step to building a more robust and reliable donor base.Myth 1: Blood donation makes you weak.Fact: “The fluid components are replaced within 24 hours, and red blood cells regenerate within weeks,” says Dr. Bhattacharya. Healthy men can safely donate every 3 months; women, every 4 months.Myth 2: The process is painful or too time-consuming.Fact: “The blood draw itself only takes 8–10 minutes. Including the screening and post-donation rest, the entire visit wraps up in under 45 minutes,” Dr. Bhattacharya clarifies.Myth 3: Only rare blood types are needed.Fact: Common blood types are often in higher demand due to their compatibility across patient populations. “Every blood type is essential—be it for surgeries, maternity care, or injuries,” she notes.Myth 4: Older adults or thin individuals should not donate.Fact: If you're between 18–65 years, in good health, and meet minimum weight and hemoglobin thresholds, you’re eligible. First-time donors can donate until age 60.Myth 5: Women can't donate blood.Fact: “Aside from temporary conditions like menstruation or lactation, women can and should donate blood if they meet eligibility,” Dr. Mokalikar emphasizes.Myth 6: Blood donation may cause infections.Fact: The process uses sterile, one-time-use equipment. “There’s zero risk of catching infections,” he reassures.Are There Any Health Benefits for Donors?Donating blood is not just a selfless gesture; it comes with tangible health perks.Improved heart health: “Regular donation helps lower iron overload in the body, which is linked to reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases,” Dr. Bhattacharya shares.Calorie burn: One blood donation session can burn around 600–650 calories, similar to a light workout.Stimulates red blood cell production: “Donation encourages bone marrow to generate fresh red cells, helping keep your circulatory system active,” she explains.A mini health screening: Donors undergo blood pressure, hemoglobin, and pulse checks. Blood is also screened for infections like HIV, Hepatitis B & C, providing an early warning system for the donor’s own health.Mental well-being: “The psychological benefit—knowing you’ve potentially saved lives—releases endorphins and improves mood,” adds Dr. Mokalikar.What Happens To Your Body After Donating Blood?Once donated, your blood is processed into three core components:Packed Red Blood Cells (PRBCs): Used in trauma, surgeries, and patients with anemia or cancer.Platelet Concentrates: Vital for patients with clotting disorders, infections, or undergoing chemotherapy.Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP): Used in patients with liver failure or bleeding disorders.This separation maximizes the utility of a single donation—reaching three different patients with three different medical needs.According to WHO, less than 1% of the eligible population donates blood in many countries—a number that needs urgent improvement. “If more people come forward regularly, hospitals will have the reserves to act swiftly during crises like accidents, natural disasters, or major surgeries,” urges Dr. Mokalikar.He adds, “Blood donation is not a one-time favor. Men can donate every 3 months, and women every 4 months. Routine donations help keep blood stocks consistent and reliable.”Blood donation is one of the most powerful acts of human kindness, and one of the simplest. The entire process—from screening to actual donation and rest—takes less than an hour but leaves a lasting impact. As Dr. Bhattacharya puts it, “It’s free, it’s safe, and it helps others while improving your own health. Why wait?”

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