Saturday, December 21, 2024

Can Marijuana Consumers Donate Needed Blood

It is the most festive time of the year, but also the time of year when blood donations are need the most.  If you use weed…can you donate.

Blood is generally considered most needed during the winter months, particularly around the holiday season, due to reduced donations caused by holiday celebrations, inclement weather, and increased illness like the flu. This leads to potential blood shortages. Most people don’t think of it unless they need it, but it truly a lifesaving donation which is easy to make. But can marijuana consumers donate needed blood?

The USA and UK set up their first blood banks in the late 1930s. Blood donations are down and the American Red Cross declared an emergency blood shortage in January 2024. The number of people donating blood has decreased by about 40% over the past 20 years. The national blood inventory dropped by more than 25% in July 2024.The USA and UK set up their first blood banks.

person in white long sleeve shirt sitting on chair

If you drink alcohol, you can drink, but it has to be out of your body’s system. it is recommended you not have booze 24 hours before donating. Like alcohol, you can donate blood, but you have to let the marijuana move out of your system. Potential donors cannot give if cannabis use impairs their memory or comprehension. The Red Cross does not test blood donations for the presence of tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, the principle psychoactive component of the cannabis plant.  But you should wait 24 hours from the last time you are high.

Donating blood is easy. You go to the nearest location, sign in, show ID, and read some information. You’ll answer questions online or in person, and receive a health check. 
The acutional process is easy, a sterile needle is inserted into a vein in your arm, and blood is drawn into a bag. The donation usually takes 8–10 minutes and feels like a quick pinch. Afterwards they providea snack and drink and 10–15 minutes to recovery before resuming your day. 
Blood donations are essential for patients who are undergoing surgery, have trauma, or are battling cancer. A single donation can save the lives of up to three people. 

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