Platelet Donation

Platelet Donation: A Life-Saving Gift

Platelet donation is a specialized type of blood donation that helps patients who need platelets to recover from serious medical conditions such as cancer, surgeries, or blood disorders. Unlike whole blood donation, platelet donation focuses on collecting only platelets, which are essential for blood clotting and preventing excessive bleeding.

What Are Platelets?

Platelets are tiny blood cells that help form clots to stop bleeding.

They are essential for healing wounds and preventing excessive blood loss.

Platelets have a short shelf life of just 5–7 days, so regular donations are needed.

Who Needs Platelet Donations?

Cancer Patients – Chemotherapy reduces platelet count, leading to bleeding risks.

Leukemia & Blood Disorder Patients – Require frequent platelet transfusions.

Organ Transplant & Surgery Patients – To prevent excessive bleeding.

Premature Babies & Trauma Victims – Need platelets to survive medical complications.

Step-by-Step Platelet Donation Process

Registration & Screening – You will fill out a health questionnaire and undergo a medical check-up (blood pressure, pulse, hemoglobin levels).

Blood Draw & Separation – A needle is inserted into your arm, and blood is drawn into a machine that separates platelets.

Platelet Collection – The machine collects platelets and returns red blood cells and plasma to your body.

Completion & Recovery – The process takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours. You will rest and receive fluids/snacks before leaving.

Who Can Donate Platelets?

Age: Usually 18-60 years (varies by country).

Weight: Minimum 50 kg (110 lbs).

Good Health: No infections, illnesses, or recent surgeries.

No Aspirin Use: Must avoid aspirin for 48 hours before donation (as it affects platelets).

Benefits of Platelet Donation

Saves Lives – Helps patients in critical conditions recover.

Quick Recovery – Your body replenishes platelets within 48 hours.

More Impactful – Since platelets are short-lived, demand is always high.

After Donation Care

Drink plenty of water.

Eat iron-rich foods (e.g., spinach, meat, nuts).

Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for 24 hours.

Rest if feeling lightheaded.