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Risks
By Mayo Clinic staffBlood donation is safe. New, sterile disposable equipment is used for each donor, so there's no risk of contracting a bloodborne infection by donating blood.
If you're a healthy adult, you can usually donate a pint of blood without endangering your health. Within 24 hours of a blood donation, your body replaces the lost fluids. And after several weeks, your body replaces the lost red blood cells.
References
- Blood FAQ. AABB. http://www.aabb.org/resources/bct/Pages/bloodfaq.aspx. Accessed March 2, 2011.
- Eligibility requirements. American Red Cross. http://www.redcrossblood.org/donating-blood/eligibility-requirements. Accessed March 2, 2011.
- FAQs about donating blood. American Red Cross. http://www.givelife2.org/donor/faq.asp. Accessed March 4, 2011.
- Tips for a good donation experience. American Red Cross. http://www.givelife2.org/donor/tips.asp. Accessed March 4, 2011.
- Winters JL (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. March 7, 2011.
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