What Percent of the Eligible Population Donates Blood?

Only 3%. That is unfortunate because it is one of the few ways an ordinary person can actually save lives. And there is always a greater need than the supply.

But please don't hate on people simply because they don't donate. Many can't because of things beyond their control. Like being below a minimum weight, having an iron deficiency, certain health conditions, exposure to certain illnesses (which can simply result from travel).

But if you can, I encourage you to do so.

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CrazyMusicLover · 31-35

I'm not eligible.

My brother knows a guy who started having serious health problems after donating blood. Maybe it was a coincidence but likely not and for some strange reason it triggered some horrible chronic disease in him. Doctors predicted he might not even reach his 30s. I know it shouldn't deter other people but if I was eligible, after knowing this I would think twice.

ineedadrink · 51-55, M

@CrazyMusicLover Did those same doctors say donating blood was the cause?

CrazyMusicLover · 31-35

@ineedadrink I don't know but if I remember well, at first his arm got unusually swollen at the side of the puncture and it spread further from that place, so there wasn't much to doubt about. Then he developed uncontrolled blood clotting he has to manage with meds and despite that he still has to have blood clots dissolved from time to time. From what I understood, he's at the constant risk of dying from thrombosis. Allegedly, he had no problems prior to that incident.