NWHRC: Women & Eye Health at Midlife

Cover story:

Women and Blood Donation

Despite the patriotic outpouring after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, when 500,000 Americans donated blood, the U.S. blood supply runs on perilously thin margins. Hospitals have reported having to cancel or postpone elective surgery due to blood shortages. A major reason for the blood shortage is that even though 60 percent of the country's population is eligible to donate blood, only five percent does. Interestingly, when it comes to frequency of blood donation, men outpace women, even though women receive 53 percent of all blood transfusions. Full story

Blood Basics

Did you know that in a medical emergency anyone can receive type O red blood cells, and that 38 percent of the population has type O blood? Learn more about blood types and what pregnant women need to know about the Rh factor. Full story

Five Myths about Blood and Blood Donation

It's a myth that you can get a blood-borne disease by donating blood. It's also a myth that women can't donate during their menstrual period. Full story

Departments:

Lifestyle Corner - The Ins and Outs of Donating Blood by Pamela Peeke, MD, MPH

Donating blood is easier than ever, but it helps to know how to prepare and what to expect when you go to donate. You must be in good health and at least 17 years of age, although some states permit younger people, with parental consent, to donate. Full story

Putting Blood to Work: Transfusions

More than half of Americans say they are "moderately" or "very" concerned about the safety of blood transfusions, and 36 percent believe the U.S. blood supply is unsafe. Is there any merit to their concerns? Full story

Ages & Stages - What Your Blood Can Tell You
Just a few drops of your blood are needed for the most common blood test, a complete blood count, or CBC. This simple test can reveal a wealth of clues about your overall health. Full story

Ask the Expert: Common Questions and Answers about Blood Donation

Should you donate your own blood prior to having surgery? You want to donate blood, but you're afraid of needles. What should you do? Find out what a Senior Medical Officer at the American Red Cross and the President of America's Blood Centers have to say. Full story

Resources
Toll-free numbers and Web sites to find out where you can donate blood.

References

© 2003 The National Women's Health Resource Center. All rights reserved. Reproduction of material published in the National Women's Health Report Online is encouraged with written permission from NWHRC.

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