LAHORE:On the occasion of World Blood Donor Day 2026, Dr Usman Ahmed, Head of Medical Oncology at Shaukat Khanum Cancer Hospital, urged the public to regularly donate blood voluntarily.
He emphasised that blood donation is not only a life-saving act but is also essential for patients suffering from cancer, thalassemia, severe anemia, accident-related injuries, women facing pregnancy complications, patients undergoing major surgeries, and many others with serious medical conditions.
He stated that cancer patients are also among those who frequently require blood transfusions during treatment. Chemotherapy, certain medications, and other medical procedures can reduce blood cell and platelet counts, making transfusions of blood or its components necessary.
Dr Usman also stressed the need to address common misconceptions about blood donation. He said that some people believe donating blood causes permanent weakness, harms health, or leads to long-term blood deficiency; however, these beliefs are not supported by scientific evidence. In a healthy person, the body replenishes donated blood within a few days, and blood cells are naturally regenerated. He added that donating blood at certified medical facilities is a safe procedure and does not cause any lasting harm to healthy individuals.
