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You may have heard of these common myths about blood donations. Maybe you even avoided donating because of them. We’re here to clear the air and talk about some of the biggest myths surrounding blood donations.   

Myth 1: You can’t donate blood if you have a tattoo  

If you thought this was true, you are not the only one. It’s a common misconception. The good news is you can absolutely donate! You must wait one week after getting a tattoo in a state-licensed facility. If you do the tattoo yourself (which is impressive!) or in a non-state licensed facility, you must wait three months to donate blood.  

Myth 2: You can’t donate blood if you’ve had COVID-19 or a COVID-19 vaccine   

If you have received a COVID-19 vaccine, you are still eligible to donate so long as you are symptom-free and feeling well. If you have or have had COVID-19, you need to wait 10 days from when you initially tested positive and be asymptomatic before you can donate.  

Myth 3: If you’ve had cancer, you can’t donate blood  

This depends on what type of cancer you had. You can donate a year after completing treatment for melanoma and internal cancers. The exception is lymphoma and leukemia. Those cancers are indefinite deferrals. For minor skin cancers, you can donate two weeks after the cancer is removed.  

Myth 4: My blood type isn’t needed  

You might think your blood type isn’t needed because it’s not universal. However, all blood types play an important role in saving lives. Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs a blood transfusion. Your donation can help make a difference in the lives of patients and their families.  

Myth 5: You can’t donate if you’ve traveled outside the U.S.  

It all depends on when and where you travel. You can check your eligibility by clicking here 

Remember: one blood donation saves many lives! Don’t let misconceptions about donating blood stop you from donating. Patients in our community need your help.  

Schedule your appointment today at giveblood.org. 

 

Posted by Michael Iliopoulos on in Committed Hearts
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