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| Blood Components |
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Platelets - Help Control Bleeding
Platelets are small cells in the blood that control bleeding. They form clusters to plug small holes in blood vessels and assist in the clotting process.
Patients with prolonged bleeding associated with some diseases (e.g. cancer, Dengue fever ) need large quantities of platelets as part of their treatment.
Platelets can be donated in every 48 hours, maximum of 24 times in a year. 8 weeks after blood donation and have a shelf life of only five days.
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Bone Marrow
Red cells, white cells and platelets are made in the marrow of bones, especially the vertebrae, ribs, hips, skull and sternum. These essential blood cells fight infection, carry oxygen and help control bleeding.
Each year, hundreds of Indians need bone marrow transplants to treat potentially life-threatening illnesses. Fewer than 30% of these patients will find a family member with compatible bone marrow to donate. For the rest, an unrelated donor is the only available source of bone marrow. |
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Plasma - Carries Blood Cells
Plasma is a pale yellow mixture of water, proteins and salts. One of the functions of plasma is to act as a carrier for blood cells, nutrients, enzymes and hormones.
Plasma can be donated 1 – 2 liters each time in 48 hours of intervals maximum of 12 liters in a year.
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Red Cells - Deliver Oxygen
Red cells are disc-shaped cells containing hemoglobin, which enables the cells to pick up and deliver oxygen to all parts of the body.
Red Cells can be donated 2 units at a time for every 16 weeks.
Photo Copyright: Dennis Kunkel,
University of Hawaii |
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White Cells -Defend The Body
White cells are the body's primary defense against infection. They can move out of the blood stream and reach tissues being invaded.
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