Udaipur, May 29: The blood bank at Maharana Bhupal Government Hospital, the largest medical institution in the region, is facing a significant shortage of blood. This issue arises from a gap between demand and supply. The hospital requires approximately 2,500 to 3,000 units of blood each month, but only about 450 units have been collected through various blood donation camps this May.
The RNT administration has urged all social organizations, NGOs, corporate offices, youth groups, and citizens to come forward and organize blood donation camps. Healthy individuals can also donate blood directly at the Maharana Bhupal Government Hospital’s blood bank any day from morning till evening.
Dr. Sanjay Prakash, head of the Transfusion Medicine Department and in charge of the blood center, stated that the number of voluntary blood donation camps has decreased during this summer season, creating a gap between the need and collection. There is no artificial substitute for blood; it can only be obtained from the human body.
Dr. Rahul Jain, principal and controller, emphasized the commitment of Rabindranath Tagore Medical College, Udaipur, and its affiliated hospital to serve the underprivileged and needy patients coming from the farthest corners of the region. He highlighted that the current shortage in the blood bank can only be resolved through collective societal support. Reducing the mental and physical pressure on patients’ families is a shared social responsibility. He appealed to all healthy citizens in Udaipur and surrounding areas to step forward, as just one unit of blood can save the lives of three critically ill patients.
Health Benefits of Blood Donation
According to doctors, blood donation is not only a life-saving act but also highly beneficial for the donor’s health. Regular blood donation helps maintain iron balance in the body, reducing the risk of heart attacks. After donating blood, the body quickly produces new and healthy red blood cells, revitalizing energy levels. Before donation, the donor’s blood pressure, temperature, and hemoglobin levels are checked, along with free authentic testing for serious diseases like HIV, Hepatitis B and C, and syphilis. The mental peace gained from selflessly giving life to an unknown person is invaluable. Blood donation also helps burn calories, which can aid in weight management.
How to Donate Blood?
Any healthy individual aged between 18 and 65, weighing at least 45-50 kilograms, can safely donate blood once every three months. Donations can be made voluntarily at the Maharana Bhupal Government Hospital’s blood center any day. Individuals can also register as donors on the official government portal (such as e-Rakt Kosh).