How Blood and Organ Donations Save Lives
National Donor Day is celebrated each February in honor of those who donate their blood or organs to save somebody's life. Blood and organ donation in cancer care is essential.
According to the Mayo Clinic, approximately 25% of all blood donations are used to support cancer patients, who often require transfusions for a variety of reasons.
Some cancers, such as colon or stomach cancer, can lead to significant blood loss, necessitating blood replacement to help the body function properly.
Blood cancers, including leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma, often require transfusions during treatment. These cancers crowd the bone marrow with cancer cells, impairing the body's ability to produce sufficient healthy blood on its own.
Other cancers, like kidney cancer, can suppress blood production and alter hormone levels, leading to anemia and other complications.
Blood donations are vital for cancer patients, providing essential components like clotting factors, proteins, and antibodies, all of which play a critical role in saving lives and supporting their treatment journeys.
Organ Donation:
Organ transplants are a form of treatment for certain types of cancer. Having an organ transplant can save the lives of cancer patients.
Liver Transplants:
Liver transplants can be an effective treatment for early-stage liver cancer and a critical option for advanced-stage cases where other treatments are no longer effective.
Kidney Transplants:
If kidney cancer spreads to both kidneys or if the remaining kidney is not functioning properly, a kidney transplant could be a life-saving procedure. Transplants can also help cancer patients who are suffering from organ failure.
How You Can Help
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Donate Blood:
Blood donations are in constant demand, especially for cancer patients undergoing treatment. One pint of blood can save up to three lives. -
Register as an Organ Donor:
By registering as an organ donor, you ensure that your body can offer life to someone in need.
This National Donor Day, take the step to become a donor. Whether through a blood donation or by registering as an organ donor, your donation could change someone's life.