Cannabis users may certainly donate life-saving blood
Realizing the immense services that blood donors, particularly free donors, achieve in saving lives within the community, it is universally encouraged. Putting blood and blood products within reaching distance, especially in emergency situations like after accidents could very well help a heart beat and lungs and kidneys survive the trauma. If the doubt arises whether cannabis users may donate blood like any other healthy person, the answer is an emphatic ‘yes.’ Several blood banks were contacted and they agree that it is feasible. Why ever not? The response from queries to Bloodworks Northwest and Biomat USA, for instance, came rather quickly!
Besides, June 14th being World Blood Donor Day was an intense reminder. Though blood donations are not received from intoxicated persons, whether under the influenced of liquor or cannabis, the presence of THC in the blood is not considered. Blood is tested to know the blood group and infectious diseases like hepatitis and HIV, among others. Tests may be conducted to know protein levels, and hematocrit and syphilis presence. Such replies in response to emails assured us that THC is not on the agenda.
Let us proceed further. American Red Cross processes about 40% of the total blood and blood products within the country. ARC states in their pamphlet that using controlled substances like alcohol and marijuana does not disqualify you from blood donations. However, injecting illegal substances becomes a barrier to blood donations. Be assured that ARC does not put you through a THC test. Rather, they insist that individuals under the influence of drugs or alcohol are not accepted for blood donations.
You must be healthy and sober while appearing to donate blood, which means that you cannot stagger into their office with a massive high or in an inebriated condition. If not high, the psychoactive THC compounds have been assimilated. THC is transformed quickly into two chemicals known as 11-OH-THC and 11-nor-9-Carboxy-THC. Further processing may take several hours when liver enzymes metabolize the chemicals until no THC is left.
Cannabis consumers are quite eligible to donate blood. Nobody would bother you about breaking the law. A brief screening process does take place, however. Health history and recent travel questions could be posed. Blood pressure, temperature and a blood sample will test the level of iron. The best approach would be to donate blood after resting and a good meal, and adequate water. Besides, avoid drinking and marijuana along with caffeine before the donation.
Summers are sparse regarding donations because of the vacation frenzy. Thus, the need for more summer donors. A single donation could save three lives…
