Plasma  donation involves giving a part of your blood called plasma. Plasma is the liquid part of  the blood that carries vital components like Red blood cells, White blood cells, and Platelets throughout the body. It also contains antibodies and proteins crucial for fighting infections.

Who Can Donate Plasma? 

• Between 18 to 60 years old
• Weigh at least 65 kg.
• Have no symptoms of COVID-19 in the last 14 days ( if donating for COVID-19 patients) 
• Meet specific blood test criteria (varies depending on the donation type)  

Do not Donate plasma if you fall into any of the following categories: 

• If you are over 65 years old or under 18 years old. 
• If your body weight is less than 50 Kg. 
• If you are Pregnant. 
• If you have any chronic illnesses like diabetes or kidney failure,  or if you have recently started a new medication for such conditions. 
• If you have received a tattoo or undergone major surgery within the last six months.

What Does Plasma Do?

Plasma does many important things to keep your body working properly.

• It moves water around your body to where it’s needed. 
• It carries hormones, nutrients, and proteins to different parts of your body and helps you swap oxygen and carbon dioxide. 
• It helps to keep your blood vessels strong and clear, preventing them from collapsing or getting clogged. 
• It helps to keep your blood pressure stable and make sure your blood keeps circulating properly.
• It helps control your body temperature by soaking up and letting out heat. 
• It takes waste from your cells and carries it to your liver, lungs, and kidneys so your body can get rid of it. 
• It helps your body clot, which is important for stopping bleeding.  
• It helps your body fight off infection that causes bacteria viruses, fungi, and parasites.

How to Donate Plasma?

There are two easy ways to donate plasma:
 

1. Donating Whole Blood: A healthcare provider puts a needle in a vein in your arm and takes out blood. Later, a lab separates the plasma from the blood. 

2. Donating Plasma Only (Plasmapheresis): Similar to giving the whole blood, a healthcare provider placed a needle in your arm vein to take out blood. This blood goes into a machine called a centrifuge, that spins it and separates the plasma from the blood cells and platelets. The machine keeps the plasma and returns the rest of your blood back into your body with a saltwater solution.

After taking our plasma, the lab freezes it within 24 hours to keep important factors like clotting and antibodies. Frozen Plasma lasts for one year.

People with AB blood type are preferred plasma donors because their plasma doesn’t have antibodies and can be given to anyone. But anyone can donate plasma.

What proteins are in Plasma? 
 

Plasma has different proteins inside it. Here are some of them: 

• Albumin: This protein helps to keep the fluid inside the blood vessel and prevents it from leaking into tissues. It also carries hormones, vitamins and enzymes to different parts of your body.
   
• Antibodies ( immunoglobulins): These proteins help your body fight off infections caused by bacteria, fungi, viruses, and even cancer cells.
   
• Clotting Factors (like fibrinogen and von Willebrand factor): These proteins are important for controlling bleeding. They help your body clot when you get cut or injury.    

Conclusion:

Plasma donation is a noble act that can save lives and contribute to the well-being of society. By understanding the process, eligibility criteria, and impact of plasma donation in India, individuals can make informed decisions about participating in this life saving endeavour. Your contribution can make a significant difference in someone's life, especially during times of crisis. If you're eligible and willing to donate plasma, reach out to your nearest healthcare facility or blood bank to begin the process today. Your generosity can help save lives and bring hope to those in need.