Q&A: Ovarian cancer
In these preliminary results, doctors found nearly half of the cancers detected were at an early stage. Normally, doctors would only catch about 15 percent of early ovarian cancer patients.
The study was published online Wednesday in the medical journal, Lancet Oncology.
"I'm cautiously optimistic," said Robert Smith, director of cancer screening at the American Cancer Society. Smith was not connected to the study.
"This may make a difference to saving lives, but we don't know that right now," he said. Smith said the tumors detected in screening are sometimes not the ones that kill.
To know if catching ovarian cancer early saves lives, researchers must wait until the study finishes in 2014 to look at all the data. The study was mainly paid for by Britain's Medical Research Council, Cancer Research UK and the Department of Health.
"Picking up cancer early is a prerequisite to saving lives," said Ian Jacobs, one of the study's authors and dean of health sciences research and director of the Institute for Women's Health at University College London. "But the question is, is this early enough?"
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Experts will also have to weigh the tests' benefits against its costs. "It's a big and expensive jump to decide that (national) screening programs might be beneficial," Smith said.
With any screening test, authorities must determine whether the tests save enough lives to merit the financial and other costs, like patients who will have unnecessary surgeries or psychological distress.
Several companies in the United States are seeking approval from the Food and Drug Administration to sell their tests.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Catching disease
In the British study, doctors enrolled approximately 200,000 post-menopausal women aged 50 to 74 across the United Kingdom from 2001 to 2005. About 100,000 of those women received no screening tests.
The remaining half were split into two groups. Roughly 50,000 were screened with a blood test. If the blood test results suggested an abnormality, they then had an ultrasound. The rest of the women, nearly 50,000, received an ultrasound only.
In the women who had a blood test first, researchers found 38 who had cancer. In those who only had an ultrasound, there were 32 cancer cases. Using the blood test method, ovarian cancer was picked up 89 percent of the time. With the ultrasound, the rate was about 75 percent.
The remaining half were split into two groups. Roughly 50,000 were screened with a blood test. If the blood test results suggested an abnormality, they then had an ultrasound. The rest of the women, nearly 50,000, received an ultrasound only.
In the women who had a blood test first, researchers found 38 who had cancer. In those who only had an ultrasound, there were 32 cancer cases. Using the blood test method, ovarian cancer was picked up 89 percent of the time. With the ultrasound, the rate was about 75 percent.
Blood tests could detect ovarian cancer early
LONDON - Doctors screening women for ovarian cancer were able to pick up the disease about two years earlier than normal, according to a British study published Wednesday.
Scientists have long searched for a way to identify ovarian cancer early, which kills nearly 100,000 women worldwide every year. If it is found early, nearly 90 percent of women survive.
However, most women are currently only diagnosed with the disease after it has spread, when there is only a maximum 30 percent chance of survival.
Scientists have long searched for a way to identify ovarian cancer early, which kills nearly 100,000 women worldwide every year. If it is found early, nearly 90 percent of women survive.
However, most women are currently only diagnosed with the disease after it has spread, when there is only a maximum 30 percent chance of survival.
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Do you find it difficult to get to sleep and stay asleep? Don't despair - try our seven day sleep makeover.
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Majority of women with ovarian cancer face diagnosis delays - 26 Aug 09More than half of women with ovarian cancer are not diagnosed early enough because their symptoms are not always investigated promptly, scientists have warned.
Tamoxifen may raise risk of aggressive tumours - 26 Aug 09US scientists have found that while the breast cancer drug tamoxifen reduces the risk of a common form of the disease returning, it may increase the chances of developing a more aggressive second tumour.
Treatment for 'the bends' could help cancer patients - 25 Aug 09A technique that is used to treat divers with decompression sickness, or 'the bends', could benefit cancer patients who are receiving radiotherapy, experts believe.
Young people's cancer treatment 'improving' - 25 Aug 09Improved survival rates among 15 to 24-year-old cancer patients suggest that treatment is progressing, according to new research.
Scientists shed light on role of genes in smokers' lung cancer - 23 Aug 09UK scientists have provided more evidence that inherited genetic changes increase the risk of lung cancer in people who smoke.
Majority of women with ovarian cancer face diagnosis delays - 26 Aug 09More than half of women with ovarian cancer are not diagnosed early enough because their symptoms are not always investigated promptly, scientists have warned.
Tamoxifen may raise risk of aggressive tumours - 26 Aug 09US scientists have found that while the breast cancer drug tamoxifen reduces the risk of a common form of the disease returning, it may increase the chances of developing a more aggressive second tumour.
Treatment for 'the bends' could help cancer patients - 25 Aug 09A technique that is used to treat divers with decompression sickness, or 'the bends', could benefit cancer patients who are receiving radiotherapy, experts believe.
Young people's cancer treatment 'improving' - 25 Aug 09Improved survival rates among 15 to 24-year-old cancer patients suggest that treatment is progressing, according to new research.
Scientists shed light on role of genes in smokers' lung cancer - 23 Aug 09UK scientists have provided more evidence that inherited genetic changes increase the risk of lung cancer in people who smoke.
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New drug approved for advanced bowel cancer
Last updated 27 August 2009
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (Nice) has approved a new drug, cetuximab, for NHS use as a treatment for advanced bowel cancer that has spread to the liver.Cetuximab is a biological therapy that attaches itself to receptor proteins on the surface of cancer cells.This prevents another protein called epidermal growth factor (EGF) from reaching the cancer cells and stops them from growing.Nice has announced that the drug should be offered as a first-line treatment for metastatic colorectal (bowel) cancer, when used in combination with a number of other drugs called 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), folinic acid and oxaliplatin.However, cetuximab may only be given to patients whose bowel tumours are operable, whose liver tumours are inoperable, and who would be well enough to undergo surgery if their liver tumours became operable after treatment.According to Nice, the drug's manufacturer has agreed to repay 16 per cent of the amount of cetuximab used by each patient, a move that has made the drug cost-effective for use on the NHS.Professor Peter Littlejohns, clinical and public health director at Nice, said: 'Before making these recommendations the appraisal committee considered the manufacturer's cost-effectiveness estimates and the proposed 16 per cent rebate scheme, as well as the evidence on cetuximab successfully shrinking liver metastases enough so that they can be removed via surgery.'The expert added that the latest guidance 'means that those patients who meet these criteria will have a further treatment option'.
New drug approved for advanced bowel cancer
Last updated 27 August 2009
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (Nice) has approved a new drug, cetuximab, for NHS use as a treatment for advanced bowel cancer that has spread to the liver.Cetuximab is a biological therapy that attaches itself to receptor proteins on the surface of cancer cells.This prevents another protein called epidermal growth factor (EGF) from reaching the cancer cells and stops them from growing.Nice has announced that the drug should be offered as a first-line treatment for metastatic colorectal (bowel) cancer, when used in combination with a number of other drugs called 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), folinic acid and oxaliplatin.However, cetuximab may only be given to patients whose bowel tumours are operable, whose liver tumours are inoperable, and who would be well enough to undergo surgery if their liver tumours became operable after treatment.According to Nice, the drug's manufacturer has agreed to repay 16 per cent of the amount of cetuximab used by each patient, a move that has made the drug cost-effective for use on the NHS.Professor Peter Littlejohns, clinical and public health director at Nice, said: 'Before making these recommendations the appraisal committee considered the manufacturer's cost-effectiveness estimates and the proposed 16 per cent rebate scheme, as well as the evidence on cetuximab successfully shrinking liver metastases enough so that they can be removed via surgery.'The expert added that the latest guidance 'means that those patients who meet these criteria will have a further treatment option'.
How is chronic lymphocytic leukaemia treated?
Treatment is not always required and the patient may just be followed up as an outpatient on a regular basis, sometimes for many years, with no need for further action.
Older people with early stage CLL have a normal life expectancy. Treatment in the form of chemotherapy will be required for those who are unwell or who have many enlarged lymph glands, or who become significantly anaemic.
Chemotherapy is usually given in the form of tablets (usually a medicine called chlorambucil (Leukeran)). Other chemotherapy drugs such as fludarabine (Fludara) (may be used in late stage disease. General bone marrow production of blood cells can occur in more advanced CLL (bone marrow failure) in which steroid treatment with prednisolone (eg Deltacortril) usually allows the bone marrow to recover. Milder degrees of bone marrow failure might adequately be controlled by periodic blood transfusion.
X-ray treatment (radiotherapy) can be given locally, to swollen lymph nodes, or in small repeated doses to the whole body. Infections are more common in people with CLL and need to be diagnosed early and treated vigorously.
Sometimes the spleen, which is also part of the body’s immune system swells up so much in CLL that it gives rise to pain, or it causes a type of anaemia to develop in which the red cells of the blood (oxygen-carrying cells) become fragile, leading to further anaemia. These problems may justify the surgical removal of the spleen.
Bone marrow transplantation may be considered for those patients who are less than 45 years of age and who have an aggressive form of the disease.
Older people with early stage CLL have a normal life expectancy. Treatment in the form of chemotherapy will be required for those who are unwell or who have many enlarged lymph glands, or who become significantly anaemic.
Chemotherapy is usually given in the form of tablets (usually a medicine called chlorambucil (Leukeran)). Other chemotherapy drugs such as fludarabine (Fludara) (may be used in late stage disease. General bone marrow production of blood cells can occur in more advanced CLL (bone marrow failure) in which steroid treatment with prednisolone (eg Deltacortril) usually allows the bone marrow to recover. Milder degrees of bone marrow failure might adequately be controlled by periodic blood transfusion.
X-ray treatment (radiotherapy) can be given locally, to swollen lymph nodes, or in small repeated doses to the whole body. Infections are more common in people with CLL and need to be diagnosed early and treated vigorously.
Sometimes the spleen, which is also part of the body’s immune system swells up so much in CLL that it gives rise to pain, or it causes a type of anaemia to develop in which the red cells of the blood (oxygen-carrying cells) become fragile, leading to further anaemia. These problems may justify the surgical removal of the spleen.
Bone marrow transplantation may be considered for those patients who are less than 45 years of age and who have an aggressive form of the disease.
How is chronic lymphocytic leukaemia diagnosed?
Often the condition is diagnosed by chance when blood tests are being performed for other reasons.
Although a blood test may give doctors the diagnosis, a bone marrow test is usually done to confirm the diagnosis. Special tests are performed on these samples to help classify the leukaemia as this will influence the kind of treatment required.
Scans and X-rays may also be performed in order to help doctors decide on the best treatment.
Although a blood test may give doctors the diagnosis, a bone marrow test is usually done to confirm the diagnosis. Special tests are performed on these samples to help classify the leukaemia as this will influence the kind of treatment required.
Scans and X-rays may also be performed in order to help doctors decide on the best treatment.
What are the symptoms of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia?
In addition to the symptoms mentioned above which are common to all forms of leukaemia, specific signs of the disease are:
painless enlargement of the lymph glands especially in the neck, armpits and groin.
lymph glands in deeper parts of the body may need special scans for diagnosis.
sometimes an enlarged spleen (located in the left upper quadrant of the abdomen) may cause discomfort or pain.
painless enlargement of the lymph glands especially in the neck, armpits and groin.
lymph glands in deeper parts of the body may need special scans for diagnosis.
sometimes an enlarged spleen (located in the left upper quadrant of the abdomen) may cause discomfort or pain.
What is chronic lymphocytic leukaemia?
Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is the commonest type of leukaemia with 3000 to 4000 new cases diagnosed each year in the UK. It is a form of chronic leukaemia characterised by an increased number of lymphocytes, which make up one of the main sub-groups of white cells in the blood. Despite their increased numbers these lymphocytes lack the normal ability of responding to infection by the production of antibodies, so compromising the immune system of the affected person.
CLL is rarely found in people under the age of 40 - the peak age is 65. It is twice as common in men than in women. There are no obvious causes known for CLL.
CLL is rarely found in people under the age of 40 - the peak age is 65. It is twice as common in men than in women. There are no obvious causes known for CLL.
What are the symptoms of chronic leukaemia?
It is possible to have chronic leukaemia for months or even years without knowing it.
The symptoms are varied, but many people notice:
tiredness (due to anaemia)
bruising easily (often without having had any blow or fall)
repeated infections
enlarged lymph glands
weight loss
night sweats
fever.
The symptoms are varied, but many people notice:
tiredness (due to anaemia)
bruising easily (often without having had any blow or fall)
repeated infections
enlarged lymph glands
weight loss
night sweats
fever.
Chronic leukaemia or blood cancer
What is chronic leukaemia?
Leukaemia literally means ‘many white cells in the blood'.
The white cells are part of the body’s immune system, and there are several sub-groups of white cells that have different sorts of roles in recognising and dealing with ‘invaders’ such as bacteria and viruses as well as other types of foreign protein.
All of the blood cells originate in the bone marrow and leukaemia (blood cancer) is a disease where the bone marrow produces large numbers of abnormal white cells. This means that the normal marrow is pushed into smaller and smaller areas. This results in fewer normal cells being produced and gives rise to some of the symptoms.
There are many types of leukaemia, each of which is classified according to the exact cell type affected by the disease.
Chronic leukaemia is a slowly progressive form of leukaemia and tends to involve more mature cell types. It may not need treatment immediately, but if treatment is required it is usually chemotherapy, given in the form of tablets.
The cause of leukaemia is not known.
Leukaemia literally means ‘many white cells in the blood'.
The white cells are part of the body’s immune system, and there are several sub-groups of white cells that have different sorts of roles in recognising and dealing with ‘invaders’ such as bacteria and viruses as well as other types of foreign protein.
All of the blood cells originate in the bone marrow and leukaemia (blood cancer) is a disease where the bone marrow produces large numbers of abnormal white cells. This means that the normal marrow is pushed into smaller and smaller areas. This results in fewer normal cells being produced and gives rise to some of the symptoms.
There are many types of leukaemia, each of which is classified according to the exact cell type affected by the disease.
Chronic leukaemia is a slowly progressive form of leukaemia and tends to involve more mature cell types. It may not need treatment immediately, but if treatment is required it is usually chemotherapy, given in the form of tablets.
The cause of leukaemia is not known.
Journal reference:about Lekumia
Shih-Shih Chen, Aparna Raval, Amy J. Johnson, Erin Hertlein, Te-Hui Liu, Victor X. Jin, Mara Sherman, Shu-Jun Liu, David W. Dawson, Katie E. Williams, Mark Lanasa, Sandya Liyanarachchi, Thomas S. Lin, Guido Marcucci, Yuri Pekarsky, Ramana Davuluri, Carlo M. Croce, Denis C. Guttridge, Michael A. Teitell, John C. Byrd,, and Christoph Plass. Epigenetic changes during disease progression in a murine model of human chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0906455106
Adapted from materials provided by Helmholtz Association of German Research Centres, via EurekAlert!, a service of
Adapted from materials provided by Helmholtz Association of German Research Centres, via EurekAlert!, a service of
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Silenced Genes As Warning Sign Of Blood Cancer
In many types of cancer, parts of the genetic material of tumor cells are switched off by chemical labels called methyl groups. This kind of methyl labeling ranges among the epigenetic changes that do not change the sequence of DNA building blocks. Such labels are found particularly often in genes which act as important inhibitors of pathogenic cell growth.
See also:
Health & Medicine
Leukemia
Cancer
Lung Cancer
Genes
Breast Cancer
Brain Tumor
Reference
Embryonic stem cell
Tumor suppressor gene
Nanomedicine
Metastasis
Cancer researchers do not know why healthy cells and cancer cells differ in their methylation patterns and why it is particularly the cancer inhibitors that are frequently switched off. The study of these questions is a very promising area of research, because there are drugs available that can prevent the attachment of methyl groups or other epigenetic changes and, thus, at least delay the onset of cancer.
Professor Dr. Christoph Plass at the German Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ) has investigated, jointly with colleagues from the Ohio State University in Columbus, U.S.A., the processes leading to the different methyl labels in cancer cells. A key question is when the first labels occur in the development of cancer. In their recently published study the investigators used mice affected by chronic lymphocytic leukemia as a model for studying the disease.
The researchers investigated the genetic material of these mice at regular intervals from birth. They discovered first cancer-typical methylation patterns in mice that were only three months old. This means that deviations in methylation occur long before the first signs of disease appear. These were not observed before the animals were thirteen months old. Moreover, the researchers were able to show that methylation patterns in murine DNA are largely corresponding to those found in humans suffering from leukemia. This confirms that the mouse model is suitable for studying the disease.
"Since first deviations in methylation occur so early in mice, we should find out whether this is also true for humans. If so, an early methylation test in high-risk individuals could provide clues about a developing cancer," Christoph Plass says. In this case, preventive medical intervention might be possible. Drugs preventing methyl group attachment might delay the onset of cancer. First clinical studies have already been started to check this. "This is probably most effective in a very early phase of methylation," Plass explains. The researchers believe that the first chemically deactivated genes trigger whole cascades of changes in the genetic material which can hardly be controlled at a later stage.
Epigenetics
The cells of the roughly 200 different tissues of the human body can fulfill their special tasks only by regulating the activity of their respective genes very specifically. Although every single gene is equipped with its own control elements, this is not enough for complex coordination. There is a second code that serves as an additional control level. In addition to the genetic switches that are directly integrated in the genetic material, the DNA, genes can also be switched on or off by chemical labeling of the DNA or the DNA packaging proteins. The most common of such epigenetic mutations is the attachment of methyl groups. The effect of these small chemical compounds is that a gene can no longer be read and translated into proteins.
Unlike genetic mutations, which permanently change the sequence of the DNA building blocks, all epigenetic mutations are reversible and, therefore, potential target structures of appropriate drugs.
Journal reference:
Shih-Shih Chen, Aparna Raval, Amy J. Johnson, Erin Hertlein, Te-Hui Liu, Victor X. Jin, Mara Sherman, Shu-Jun Liu, David W. Dawson, Katie E. Williams, Mark Lanasa, Sandya Liyanarachchi, Thomas S. Lin, Guido Marcucci, Yuri Pekarsky, Ramana Davuluri, Carlo M. Croce, Denis C. Guttridge, Michael A. Teitell, John C. Byrd,, and Christoph Plass. Epigenetic changes during disease progression in a murine model of human chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0906455106
Adapted from materials provided by Helmholtz Association of German Research Centres, via EurekAlert!, a service of
See also:
Health & Medicine
Leukemia
Cancer
Lung Cancer
Genes
Breast Cancer
Brain Tumor
Reference
Embryonic stem cell
Tumor suppressor gene
Nanomedicine
Metastasis
Cancer researchers do not know why healthy cells and cancer cells differ in their methylation patterns and why it is particularly the cancer inhibitors that are frequently switched off. The study of these questions is a very promising area of research, because there are drugs available that can prevent the attachment of methyl groups or other epigenetic changes and, thus, at least delay the onset of cancer.
Professor Dr. Christoph Plass at the German Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ) has investigated, jointly with colleagues from the Ohio State University in Columbus, U.S.A., the processes leading to the different methyl labels in cancer cells. A key question is when the first labels occur in the development of cancer. In their recently published study the investigators used mice affected by chronic lymphocytic leukemia as a model for studying the disease.
The researchers investigated the genetic material of these mice at regular intervals from birth. They discovered first cancer-typical methylation patterns in mice that were only three months old. This means that deviations in methylation occur long before the first signs of disease appear. These were not observed before the animals were thirteen months old. Moreover, the researchers were able to show that methylation patterns in murine DNA are largely corresponding to those found in humans suffering from leukemia. This confirms that the mouse model is suitable for studying the disease.
"Since first deviations in methylation occur so early in mice, we should find out whether this is also true for humans. If so, an early methylation test in high-risk individuals could provide clues about a developing cancer," Christoph Plass says. In this case, preventive medical intervention might be possible. Drugs preventing methyl group attachment might delay the onset of cancer. First clinical studies have already been started to check this. "This is probably most effective in a very early phase of methylation," Plass explains. The researchers believe that the first chemically deactivated genes trigger whole cascades of changes in the genetic material which can hardly be controlled at a later stage.
Epigenetics
The cells of the roughly 200 different tissues of the human body can fulfill their special tasks only by regulating the activity of their respective genes very specifically. Although every single gene is equipped with its own control elements, this is not enough for complex coordination. There is a second code that serves as an additional control level. In addition to the genetic switches that are directly integrated in the genetic material, the DNA, genes can also be switched on or off by chemical labeling of the DNA or the DNA packaging proteins. The most common of such epigenetic mutations is the attachment of methyl groups. The effect of these small chemical compounds is that a gene can no longer be read and translated into proteins.
Unlike genetic mutations, which permanently change the sequence of the DNA building blocks, all epigenetic mutations are reversible and, therefore, potential target structures of appropriate drugs.
Journal reference:
Shih-Shih Chen, Aparna Raval, Amy J. Johnson, Erin Hertlein, Te-Hui Liu, Victor X. Jin, Mara Sherman, Shu-Jun Liu, David W. Dawson, Katie E. Williams, Mark Lanasa, Sandya Liyanarachchi, Thomas S. Lin, Guido Marcucci, Yuri Pekarsky, Ramana Davuluri, Carlo M. Croce, Denis C. Guttridge, Michael A. Teitell, John C. Byrd,, and Christoph Plass. Epigenetic changes during disease progression in a murine model of human chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0906455106
Adapted from materials provided by Helmholtz Association of German Research Centres, via EurekAlert!, a service of
Types Of Leukemia?
Evolution of Treatment for a Rare Type of Leukemia
Medical Author: Michael Lill, MD Medical Editor: Leslie J. Schoenfield, MD, PhDMedical Revising Editor: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MDIntroduction text to the patients story. This is her story... -->
One of my more vivid memories from the early days of my training in hematology in Perth, Australia, is of the tragedy of a young girl with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). This disease is a very serious, rare type of acute leukemia (cancer of the white blood cells). I admitted her to our oncology floor in the hospital. A teenager, she had been completely well until one Sunday when she developed unusually heavy menstrual bleeding. She saw her doctor in her small country town on Monday, had a blood count done on Tuesday, and was flown up to us in Perth on Wednesday with a diagnosis of acute (rapid onset) leukemia. The next day, we performed a biopsy of the bone marrow that enabled us to confirm the diagnosis. We immediately started chemotherapy but that night she bled into her brain. Despite intensive medical efforts, including brain surgery, she died the next morning.
Leukemia Cells
In a person with leukemia, the bone marrow makes abnormal white blood cells. The abnormal cells are leukemia cells.
Unlike normal blood cells, leukemia cells don't die when they should. They may crowd out normal white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. This makes it hard for normal blood cells to do their work.
Unlike normal blood cells, leukemia cells don't die when they should. They may crowd out normal white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. This makes it hard for normal blood cells to do their work.
Normal Blood Cells
Most blood cells develop from cells in the bone marrow called stem cells. Bone marrow is the soft material in the center of most bones. 
Stem cells mature into different kinds of blood cells. Each kind has a special job:
White blood cells help fight infection. There are several types of white blood cells.
Red blood cells carry oxygen to tissues throughout the body.
Platelets help form blood clots that control bleeding.
White blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets are made from stem cells as the body needs them. When cells grow old or get damaged, they die, and new cells take their place.
The picture below shows how stem cells can mature into different types of white blood cells. First, a stem cell matures into either a myeloid stem cell or a lymphoid stem cell:
A myeloid stem cell matures into a myeloid blast. The blast can form a red blood cell, platelets, or one of several types of white blood cells.
A lymphoid stem cell matures into a lymphoid blast. The blast can form one of several types of white blood cells, such as B cells or T cells.
The white blood cells that form from myeloid blasts are different from the white blood cells that form from lymphoid blasts.
Stem cells mature into different kinds of blood cells. Each kind has a special job:
White blood cells help fight infection. There are several types of white blood cells.
Red blood cells carry oxygen to tissues throughout the body.
Platelets help form blood clots that control bleeding.
White blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets are made from stem cells as the body needs them. When cells grow old or get damaged, they die, and new cells take their place.
The picture below shows how stem cells can mature into different types of white blood cells. First, a stem cell matures into either a myeloid stem cell or a lymphoid stem cell:
A myeloid stem cell matures into a myeloid blast. The blast can form a red blood cell, platelets, or one of several types of white blood cells.
A lymphoid stem cell matures into a lymphoid blast. The blast can form one of several types of white blood cells, such as B cells or T cells.
The white blood cells that form from myeloid blasts are different from the white blood cells that form from lymphoid blasts.
What is leukemia?
Leukemia is cancer that starts in the tissue that forms blood. To understand cancer, it helps to know how normal blood cells form.
What is leukemia?
Leukemia is cancer that starts in the tissue that forms blood. To understand cancer, it helps to know how normal blood cells form.
Leukemia
Leukemia
What is leukemia?
What are the types of leukemia?
Who is at risk for leukemia?
What are symptoms of leukemia?
How is leukemia diagnosed?
How is leukemia treated?
How does someone get a second opinion about leukemia treatment?
What happens after treatment for leukemia?
What research is being done for leukemia?
What resources are available to patients with leukemia?
Leukemia At A Glance
Patient Discussions: Leukemia - Symptoms Experienced
Evolution of Treatment for a Rare Type of Leukemia
Medical Author: Michael Lill, MD Medical Editor: Leslie J. Schoenfield, MD, PhDMedical Revising Editor: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MDIntroduction text to the patients story. This is her story... -->
One of my more vivid memories from the early days of my training in hematology in Perth, Australia, is of the tragedy of a young girl with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). This disease is a very serious, rare type of acute leukemia (cancer of the white blood cells). I admitted her to our oncology floor in the hospital. A teenager, she had been completely well until one Sunday when she developed unusually heavy menstrual bleeding. She saw her doctor in her small country town on Monday, had a blood count done on Tuesday, and was flown up to us in Perth on Wednesday with a diagnosis of acute (rapid onset) leukemia. The next day, we performed a biopsy of the bone marrow that enabled us to confirm the diagnosis. We immediately started chemotherapy but that night she bled into her brain. Despite intensive medical efforts, including brain surgery, she died the next morning.
Read how all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) treats APL »
What is leukemia?
What is leukemia?
What are the types of leukemia?
Who is at risk for leukemia?
What are symptoms of leukemia?
How is leukemia diagnosed?
How is leukemia treated?
How does someone get a second opinion about leukemia treatment?
What happens after treatment for leukemia?
What research is being done for leukemia?
What resources are available to patients with leukemia?
Leukemia At A Glance
Patient Discussions: Leukemia - Symptoms Experienced
Evolution of Treatment for a Rare Type of Leukemia
Medical Author: Michael Lill, MD Medical Editor: Leslie J. Schoenfield, MD, PhDMedical Revising Editor: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MDIntroduction text to the patients story. This is her story... -->
One of my more vivid memories from the early days of my training in hematology in Perth, Australia, is of the tragedy of a young girl with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). This disease is a very serious, rare type of acute leukemia (cancer of the white blood cells). I admitted her to our oncology floor in the hospital. A teenager, she had been completely well until one Sunday when she developed unusually heavy menstrual bleeding. She saw her doctor in her small country town on Monday, had a blood count done on Tuesday, and was flown up to us in Perth on Wednesday with a diagnosis of acute (rapid onset) leukemia. The next day, we performed a biopsy of the bone marrow that enabled us to confirm the diagnosis. We immediately started chemotherapy but that night she bled into her brain. Despite intensive medical efforts, including brain surgery, she died the next morning.
Read how all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) treats APL »
What is leukemia?
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Blood Pressure Truth
Click Here To Securely Order Blood Pressure Truth
If you've gone this far already looking for a cure and faced the emotional anguish of a choice of "jail sentence" of either an early death OR a reduced quality life on disabling drugs then don't you think you really owe it to yourself to at least try Blood Pressure Truth?
Heck, you deserve an end to your suffering - you deserve to find out how simple and easy it can be to naturally lower your blood pressure and achieve a normal blood pressure without being ripped off by sham cures or having to spend a lifetime trying hundreds of drug combinations until you reach the one that has the least side effects.
You have a simple choice now - this could be a major turning point in your life. Are you going to say "no thanks" to this opportunity, take the drugs instead and accept a lifetime of grave side effects?
OR are you going to take control of your life, be a master of your own destiny, stop your high blood pressure and enjoy a healthy and abundant life, confident in the knowledge that you are no longer at increased risk of going to an early grave? The choice is yours.
Get Instant Access to Blood Pressure Truth
Yes! Please give me instant access to Blood Pressure Truth so that I can begin my journey to a healthy and worry-free future!
Yes! I understand that my purchase is backed by a 60 day, 100% satisfaction guarantee. I am ready to order now!
Here's to your future freedom of normal blood pressure.
Best Regards,
Chris Cage
P.S. Please remember, this is a limited price offer. Please order now if you are serious about defeating high blood pressure forever as I cannot lower the price again later, sorry!
P.P.S. Don't forget that you have nothing to lose in at least trying Blood Pressure Truth as you are protected by a money back guarantee.
Yes Chris, I want to do something about my health and live the rest of my life without the fear of having a sudden heart attack or stroke!
If you've gone this far already looking for a cure and faced the emotional anguish of a choice of "jail sentence" of either an early death OR a reduced quality life on disabling drugs then don't you think you really owe it to yourself to at least try Blood Pressure Truth?
Heck, you deserve an end to your suffering - you deserve to find out how simple and easy it can be to naturally lower your blood pressure and achieve a normal blood pressure without being ripped off by sham cures or having to spend a lifetime trying hundreds of drug combinations until you reach the one that has the least side effects.
You have a simple choice now - this could be a major turning point in your life. Are you going to say "no thanks" to this opportunity, take the drugs instead and accept a lifetime of grave side effects?
OR are you going to take control of your life, be a master of your own destiny, stop your high blood pressure and enjoy a healthy and abundant life, confident in the knowledge that you are no longer at increased risk of going to an early grave? The choice is yours.
Get Instant Access to Blood Pressure Truth
Yes! Please give me instant access to Blood Pressure Truth so that I can begin my journey to a healthy and worry-free future!
Yes! I understand that my purchase is backed by a 60 day, 100% satisfaction guarantee. I am ready to order now!
Here's to your future freedom of normal blood pressure.
Best Regards,
Chris Cage
P.S. Please remember, this is a limited price offer. Please order now if you are serious about defeating high blood pressure forever as I cannot lower the price again later, sorry!
P.P.S. Don't forget that you have nothing to lose in at least trying Blood Pressure Truth as you are protected by a money back guarantee.
Yes Chris, I want to do something about my health and live the rest of my life without the fear of having a sudden heart attack or stroke!
My Personal Promise
My Personal Promise To You - 60 Day No Hassle Money Back Guarantee
I am so confident that you are going to love Blood Pressure Truth that I'm offering you a 100% unconditional, 60 day money back guarantee.
As unlikely as it is, if for any reason you're not satisfied with your purchase then I'll refund your money, in full, absolutely no questions asked.
You have absolutely nothing to lose (except your health if you don't do something about it!)
I am so confident that you are going to love Blood Pressure Truth that I'm offering you a 100% unconditional, 60 day money back guarantee.
As unlikely as it is, if for any reason you're not satisfied with your purchase then I'll refund your money, in full, absolutely no questions asked.
You have absolutely nothing to lose (except your health if you don't do something about it!)
Are You Ready To Defeat Your High Blood Pressure?
Are You Ready To Defeat Your High Blood Pressure?
If you're getting excited about finally saying goodbye to high blood pressure then you'll want to know how to quickly get your hands on Blood Pressure Truth.
The beauty of this guide is that your investment is far less than the alternative of a lifetime of taking drugs (around $500 per year) and the even bigger unquantifiable cost of miserable side effects.
For a tiny investment of just $49 now only $37 you can get instant access to the Blood Pressure Truth system. But please don't delay - I'm doing an introductory price promotion and I'm not sure how long I can leave the price as it is. It's just a matter of time before it returns back to $49.
Because this guide is downloadable and can be viewed on any computer, then you can start to use this system today. You don't have to wait for shipping - you're literally just a couple of clicks away from getting instant access to the Blood Pressure Truth guide and starting your new journey to a healthy future of normal blood pressure.
ClickBank™ sells our product - they are a trusted online retailer specializing in digitally delivered products. On the right is a screenshot of the secure order form. As soon as your payment is accepted, you'll be given immediate access to a secure download web page where you can download the Blood Pressure Truth guide, ready to view on any computer (PC, Mac or Linux) or even to print out if you wish.
If you're getting excited about finally saying goodbye to high blood pressure then you'll want to know how to quickly get your hands on Blood Pressure Truth.
The beauty of this guide is that your investment is far less than the alternative of a lifetime of taking drugs (around $500 per year) and the even bigger unquantifiable cost of miserable side effects.
For a tiny investment of just $49 now only $37 you can get instant access to the Blood Pressure Truth system. But please don't delay - I'm doing an introductory price promotion and I'm not sure how long I can leave the price as it is. It's just a matter of time before it returns back to $49.
Because this guide is downloadable and can be viewed on any computer, then you can start to use this system today. You don't have to wait for shipping - you're literally just a couple of clicks away from getting instant access to the Blood Pressure Truth guide and starting your new journey to a healthy future of normal blood pressure.
ClickBank™ sells our product - they are a trusted online retailer specializing in digitally delivered products. On the right is a screenshot of the secure order form. As soon as your payment is accepted, you'll be given immediate access to a secure download web page where you can download the Blood Pressure Truth guide, ready to view on any computer (PC, Mac or Linux) or even to print out if you wish.
Introducing "Blood Pressure Truth
Introducing "Blood Pressure Truth": A Practical, Step by Step Instructional Guide to Naturally Curing Your High Blood Pressure.
"Blood Pressure Truth" is a jam-packed "how to", self instructional manual.
This guide contains the easy, exact steps that you need to follow to cure your high blood pressure! This guide contains absolutely everything that you need to finally conquer your health worries and enjoy the freedom of being safe in the knowledge that you are living a healthy life with a much lowered risk of heart attack or stroke!
Here's a small sample of what you'll learn in "Blood Pressure Truth™":
The proven 3 step Blood Pressure Truth™ Success System.
Freedom from nervous terror about dying before your time.
The incredible super foods that can lower your blood pressure naturally.
How to defeat the "cousin" of high blood pressure and get a "double whammy" increase in your health by defeating two hidden conditions at the same time.
Imagine no longer worrying about suddenly not being there for your friends and family.
How to protect your heart and your blood system by popping a few amazing supplements.
The most powerful 100% natural ingredient that the Japanese have been taking for decades to maintain a low blood pressure.
Imagine a new way of living that naturally keeps your blood pressure low without worrying about it spiking ever again.
Prevent heart disease, kidney damage, stroke and cancer and at the same time making your food even tastier than it already is.
Get your body back - imagine no longer feeling like a victim of your situation but instead knowing that keeping a normal blood pressure and a healthy body is effortless.
How to unlease your body's natural ability to heal itself of the damage done.
Why not knowing how to accurately measure your own blood pressure could mean that you're sending yourself to an early grave and you don't even know it.
Why lowering your sodium (like the doctors tell you) but ignoring other minerals could actually lead to increasing your blood pressure.
The disturbing revelation that one specific type of candy could be skyrocketing your blood pressure.
Discover why fat in your diet can actually be good for your heart and circulatory system.
The incredible properties of garlic and how get the most benefit with zero stink!
The truth about exercise and blood pressure and why you don't need to become a gym addict to lower your blood pressure.
Finally the complete and honest answer why drugs are not the answer.
How to order food at a restaurant and have the chef gladly ensure he is not increasing your blood pressure.
Learn about the "two big bad brothers" of high blood pressure that you simple cannot ignore if you want the full benefits of normal blood pressure.
Why a natural salt substitute can actually actively lower your blood pressure.
Learn the truth about the exact process of how stress turns into high blood pressure and how you can put a spanner in the works and stop this from happening.
The right type of fiber that will lower your blood pressure. Eat lots of the wrong type and there'll be no effect on your b.p.
Stop the doubts about your health and be confident in the knowledge that you are healthy.
Discover how changing your outlook on life can amazingly lower your blood pressure.
Feel and look better and take a greater enjoyment out of life, safe in knowledge that you are no longer sitting on a health time-bomb.
How to identify the common "killer" meals that are loaded with blood pressure increasing ingredients and how to fix them and make them healthier AND tastier.
A 100% natural weapon that will both lower your blood pressure AND your cholesterol.
The shockingly amazing vitamins and exact doses that can lower your blood pressure with zero effort.
Imagine never having to think about the damage that is being done to your body right now, ever again.
Discover why relying on your doctor alone for blood pressure measurements could be killing you.
The simple way to improve your heart and your mental health with a simple fish oil supplement and why they are superior to flaxseed oil supplements.
The shocking truth that you don't have to be an athlete to get 90% of the blood pressure lowering benefits from exercise and how to easily introduce low intensity exercise habits into your life without losing any of your precious free time.
Fact or fiction? Discover the real scientific facts about stress and its effects on blood pressure. Exaggerated or understated?
Dramatically reduce the risk of dying from heart failure, heart attack, stroke and kidney failure.
Feel more confident, healthier and more energetic.
Get quicker results than from drugs and without the debilitating side effects.
And much, much more...
"Much Easier Than I Thought It Would Be"
Hi Chris,
This is much easier than I thought it would be.
All I've done so far is follow your advice on supplements and already my b.p. has dropped by 10/5.
Thanks a lot!
Jill, Scottsdale
"I Am Now Much Healthier"
Chris,
My doctor told me that I had "dangerous high blood pressure" and I was so worried about dying young.
Sincerely thanks to you I am now much healthier and happier.
With my deepest thanks sir.
Victor, Singapore
"In Just 5 Weeks We Had A Normal Blood Pressure"
Chris, my wife and I both had high blood pressure until we read your guide.
We followed your advice and in just five weeks we had a normal blood pressure.
Thanks and Kind Regards,
Ian and Jackie, Doncaster, U.K.
"Blood Pressure Truth" is a jam-packed "how to", self instructional manual.
This guide contains the easy, exact steps that you need to follow to cure your high blood pressure! This guide contains absolutely everything that you need to finally conquer your health worries and enjoy the freedom of being safe in the knowledge that you are living a healthy life with a much lowered risk of heart attack or stroke!
Here's a small sample of what you'll learn in "Blood Pressure Truth™":
The proven 3 step Blood Pressure Truth™ Success System.
Freedom from nervous terror about dying before your time.
The incredible super foods that can lower your blood pressure naturally.
How to defeat the "cousin" of high blood pressure and get a "double whammy" increase in your health by defeating two hidden conditions at the same time.
Imagine no longer worrying about suddenly not being there for your friends and family.
How to protect your heart and your blood system by popping a few amazing supplements.
The most powerful 100% natural ingredient that the Japanese have been taking for decades to maintain a low blood pressure.
Imagine a new way of living that naturally keeps your blood pressure low without worrying about it spiking ever again.
Prevent heart disease, kidney damage, stroke and cancer and at the same time making your food even tastier than it already is.
Get your body back - imagine no longer feeling like a victim of your situation but instead knowing that keeping a normal blood pressure and a healthy body is effortless.
How to unlease your body's natural ability to heal itself of the damage done.
Why not knowing how to accurately measure your own blood pressure could mean that you're sending yourself to an early grave and you don't even know it.
Why lowering your sodium (like the doctors tell you) but ignoring other minerals could actually lead to increasing your blood pressure.
The disturbing revelation that one specific type of candy could be skyrocketing your blood pressure.
Discover why fat in your diet can actually be good for your heart and circulatory system.
The incredible properties of garlic and how get the most benefit with zero stink!
The truth about exercise and blood pressure and why you don't need to become a gym addict to lower your blood pressure.
Finally the complete and honest answer why drugs are not the answer.
How to order food at a restaurant and have the chef gladly ensure he is not increasing your blood pressure.
Learn about the "two big bad brothers" of high blood pressure that you simple cannot ignore if you want the full benefits of normal blood pressure.
Why a natural salt substitute can actually actively lower your blood pressure.
Learn the truth about the exact process of how stress turns into high blood pressure and how you can put a spanner in the works and stop this from happening.
The right type of fiber that will lower your blood pressure. Eat lots of the wrong type and there'll be no effect on your b.p.
Stop the doubts about your health and be confident in the knowledge that you are healthy.
Discover how changing your outlook on life can amazingly lower your blood pressure.
Feel and look better and take a greater enjoyment out of life, safe in knowledge that you are no longer sitting on a health time-bomb.
How to identify the common "killer" meals that are loaded with blood pressure increasing ingredients and how to fix them and make them healthier AND tastier.
A 100% natural weapon that will both lower your blood pressure AND your cholesterol.
The shockingly amazing vitamins and exact doses that can lower your blood pressure with zero effort.
Imagine never having to think about the damage that is being done to your body right now, ever again.
Discover why relying on your doctor alone for blood pressure measurements could be killing you.
The simple way to improve your heart and your mental health with a simple fish oil supplement and why they are superior to flaxseed oil supplements.
The shocking truth that you don't have to be an athlete to get 90% of the blood pressure lowering benefits from exercise and how to easily introduce low intensity exercise habits into your life without losing any of your precious free time.
Fact or fiction? Discover the real scientific facts about stress and its effects on blood pressure. Exaggerated or understated?
Dramatically reduce the risk of dying from heart failure, heart attack, stroke and kidney failure.
Feel more confident, healthier and more energetic.
Get quicker results than from drugs and without the debilitating side effects.
And much, much more...
"Much Easier Than I Thought It Would Be"
Hi Chris,
This is much easier than I thought it would be.
All I've done so far is follow your advice on supplements and already my b.p. has dropped by 10/5.
Thanks a lot!
Jill, Scottsdale
"I Am Now Much Healthier"
Chris,
My doctor told me that I had "dangerous high blood pressure" and I was so worried about dying young.
Sincerely thanks to you I am now much healthier and happier.
With my deepest thanks sir.
Victor, Singapore
"In Just 5 Weeks We Had A Normal Blood Pressure"
Chris, my wife and I both had high blood pressure until we read your guide.
We followed your advice and in just five weeks we had a normal blood pressure.
Thanks and Kind Regards,
Ian and Jackie, Doncaster, U.K.
It Worked!
, what have you tried to lower your blood pressure? Drugs? Did you enjoy the side effects and being a guinea pig while your doctor tried all kinds of different combinations to get one that worked and with a minimum of side effects? Hypnosis? Acupuncture? None of these work, I know this because I tried most of them myself. Haven't you had enough of being told that there is no alternative to drugs? You might even have almost given up and decided to face a future of drugs even if it meant having to put up with the common complications like frequent urination, weakness, dizziness and kidney damage.
Let me tell you right now, it doesn't have to be this way! You do NOT have to face a lifetime of drugs!
I created this simple guide to lowering your blood pressure permanently to spread the word and help the millions of other men and women out there who go through the hardship of choosing between death or a life of misery without knowing that there is a third way.
I see my co-workers secretly popping diuretic pills and having to take drugs for high cholesterol too because of the side effects of the blood pressure drugs. I see how a whole generation of adults have been duped into thinking that drugs are the only way out. I think about the millions of people who are told "it's your genetics" and that there's nothing you can do about it. Genetics, circumstances etc. - for many people these are excuses that are used to justify drugs. It doesn't matter who you are - anyone can lower their blood pressure naturally. I feel sorry for people who feel "trapped" by their genetics and create their own prison. If only they could discover my natural regime then they could be free.
I decided that I had to put an end to this craziness so I put together my easy to follow step-by-step guide to lower your blood pressure naturally and cure yourself of high blood pressure. A guide that is so easy to understand that anyone can simply follow the instructions and within a matter of weeks they will return to normal blood pressure and massively lower their risk of heart disease, stroke and the other countless health complications of high blood pressure.
So are you ready to finally put an end to your high blood pressure and learn about a system that will restore you to your former good health?
Let me tell you right now, it doesn't have to be this way! You do NOT have to face a lifetime of drugs!
I created this simple guide to lowering your blood pressure permanently to spread the word and help the millions of other men and women out there who go through the hardship of choosing between death or a life of misery without knowing that there is a third way.
I see my co-workers secretly popping diuretic pills and having to take drugs for high cholesterol too because of the side effects of the blood pressure drugs. I see how a whole generation of adults have been duped into thinking that drugs are the only way out. I think about the millions of people who are told "it's your genetics" and that there's nothing you can do about it. Genetics, circumstances etc. - for many people these are excuses that are used to justify drugs. It doesn't matter who you are - anyone can lower their blood pressure naturally. I feel sorry for people who feel "trapped" by their genetics and create their own prison. If only they could discover my natural regime then they could be free.
I decided that I had to put an end to this craziness so I put together my easy to follow step-by-step guide to lower your blood pressure naturally and cure yourself of high blood pressure. A guide that is so easy to understand that anyone can simply follow the instructions and within a matter of weeks they will return to normal blood pressure and massively lower their risk of heart disease, stroke and the other countless health complications of high blood pressure.
So are you ready to finally put an end to your high blood pressure and learn about a system that will restore you to your former good health?
What did I have to lose by trying?
It Worked!
Even though I knew these methods worked for other people, I was not expecting much. I figured that my "genetics" would prevent that. Within just a few days my b.p. had already dropped by 10 points. Beginner's luck? Over the next two months I was blown away as each natural method I used got me closer and closer to the magic number until I finally reached it - the golden b.p. of 115/75! All of this within just two months! I was shocked!
For the first time in my life, I really felt like I was in control of my health and my life. I now knew that the doc was wrong when he told me that genetics meant a life sentence of debilitating daily drugs. I now understood that genetics were just an excuse and that anybody, even me, can lower their blood pressure naturally.
No longer did I feel totally helpless about my situation. With every drop in my blood pressure I felt more and more empowered. I started to feel better about myself and my place in the world. Being able to control my blood pressure meant no more worries about dying young and a renewed zest for living in the moment. Little wonder then that soon after I got a new, better job and I met the love of my life. I don't think the "old me" - the hypertensive me, could have achieved that. It's as if I see two different versions of myself - the old hypertensive me and the new confident, healthy me.
"My Doctor Is Amazed!"
Mr. Cage, Many thanks for your wonderful guide.
I was put on a course of drugs by my doctor but they did not bring my blood pressure down enough.
Since using just two of your natural methods, I'm back into the healthy b.p. zone. I think that in a couple of months I could even stop taking the drugs altogether. My doctor is amazed!
Really, thank you so much Chris!
Bob, Memphis
"Lowered My B.P. Using Natural Methods Alone"
Dear Chris,
I feel obliged to let you know how well I am doing.
I am only 28 years old but was diagnosed six months ago with hypertension of 145/95. My doctor told me it was in my genes and I needed to take drugs for the rest of my life. I found this difficult to accept so I was determined to find another way which was when I came across your Blood Pressure Truth.
You are 100% right Chris, my genetics are not an excuse! I can and have been able to lower my blood pressure using natural methods alone, in no small part thanks to you!
Thank you,
Julie, Toronto, Canada
"I Was Not Expecting Such A Quick Improvement"
Hello Chris,
I got your guide only 3 weeks ago and already my systolic b.p. has dropped by 20 and my diastolic by 10!
I was not expecting such a quick improvement. Thank you Chris.
Jim, Costa del Sol, Spain
Even though I knew these methods worked for other people, I was not expecting much. I figured that my "genetics" would prevent that. Within just a few days my b.p. had already dropped by 10 points. Beginner's luck? Over the next two months I was blown away as each natural method I used got me closer and closer to the magic number until I finally reached it - the golden b.p. of 115/75! All of this within just two months! I was shocked!
For the first time in my life, I really felt like I was in control of my health and my life. I now knew that the doc was wrong when he told me that genetics meant a life sentence of debilitating daily drugs. I now understood that genetics were just an excuse and that anybody, even me, can lower their blood pressure naturally.
No longer did I feel totally helpless about my situation. With every drop in my blood pressure I felt more and more empowered. I started to feel better about myself and my place in the world. Being able to control my blood pressure meant no more worries about dying young and a renewed zest for living in the moment. Little wonder then that soon after I got a new, better job and I met the love of my life. I don't think the "old me" - the hypertensive me, could have achieved that. It's as if I see two different versions of myself - the old hypertensive me and the new confident, healthy me.
"My Doctor Is Amazed!"
Mr. Cage, Many thanks for your wonderful guide.
I was put on a course of drugs by my doctor but they did not bring my blood pressure down enough.
Since using just two of your natural methods, I'm back into the healthy b.p. zone. I think that in a couple of months I could even stop taking the drugs altogether. My doctor is amazed!
Really, thank you so much Chris!
Bob, Memphis
"Lowered My B.P. Using Natural Methods Alone"
Dear Chris,
I feel obliged to let you know how well I am doing.
I am only 28 years old but was diagnosed six months ago with hypertension of 145/95. My doctor told me it was in my genes and I needed to take drugs for the rest of my life. I found this difficult to accept so I was determined to find another way which was when I came across your Blood Pressure Truth.
You are 100% right Chris, my genetics are not an excuse! I can and have been able to lower my blood pressure using natural methods alone, in no small part thanks to you!
Thank you,
Julie, Toronto, Canada
"I Was Not Expecting Such A Quick Improvement"
Hello Chris,
I got your guide only 3 weeks ago and already my systolic b.p. has dropped by 20 and my diastolic by 10!
I was not expecting such a quick improvement. Thank you Chris.
Jim, Costa del Sol, Spain
My Personal Battle With High Blood Pressure
My Personal Battle With High Blood Pressure
It all started when I was just 25 years old. I had just graduated and was working for one of the top investment banks on Wall Street. Life was good. I joined the corporate gym and the trainer told me I had borderline high blood pressure but he would still let me join the gym. I didn't really think it was a big deal at the time.
Then I had a routine blood pressure check at my local doctor's clinic. He told me I had high blood pressure...just. He told me to "keep an eye on it". "Sure thing doc, whatever," I thought to myself. Surely it was nothing to worry about.
A few years later I had surgery for a minor problem. And every time the hospital staff measured my blood pressure they were shocked and told me I had "quite high blood pressure". By now I was started to get worried about this - maybe I should do something about it, maybe I should learn more about blood pressure? I did what any normal person does - I "googled" it on the internet!
I was shocked to discover that even a 10 point rise in blood pressure can lead to a doubling in risk of a heart attack or stroke! They call it "the silent killer" because so many people have high blood pressure and they don't know it because it never shows any symptoms. I didn't want to be another statistic. I realized that I had to do something about it quickly or I risked losing my life before I wanted it to end.
Everywhere I looked said that you had to go on drugs. There are 4 types of drugs for high blood pressure and none of them were invented to treat the disease. They were invented for other conditions and the side effects were really bad. Dry mouth, frequently needing to urinate, dizziness, constipation, gout, poor sleep and even erectile dysfunction! The worst part was that you must take these drugs for the rest of your life! I went from being worried about by high blood pressure to feeling angry that this was to be my future. Why me?
I said to myself - there is no way I am going to take these debilitating drugs for the rest of my life. There must surely be another way. I committed myself to learning anything and everything about high blood pressure and how to get it back down without drugs. I spoke to everyone I could think of and listened with a completely open mind. What I learned shocked me.
I discovered that there is a sub-group of former hypertensives who have lowered their blood pressure with 100% natural methods. These people do not use any drugs whatsoever. So why did I have to look so hard to find this out? Why do doctors tell you that you must take drugs? Why is anybody taking drugs if you don't need them?
I realised that much of the medical industry is corrupt. Pharmaceutical companies pay millions of dollars to lobbyists every year to influence law making. Their sales representatives give kickbacks to healthcare organizations to encourage them to use their particular brand of drugs. And expensive patented drugs are promoted over more effective but cheaper generics because there's no money in them. Even so-called impartial clinical trials are secretly funded "off-book" to promote one drug over another. The result is that drugs get the limelight and natural methods unfairly take a back seat.I learned everything there was to know about these natural methods. And then I decided to use them on myself. If they can work for hundreds of thousands of people whose voices are drowned out by the medical money-making machine then surely they can work for me, right?
It all started when I was just 25 years old. I had just graduated and was working for one of the top investment banks on Wall Street. Life was good. I joined the corporate gym and the trainer told me I had borderline high blood pressure but he would still let me join the gym. I didn't really think it was a big deal at the time.
Then I had a routine blood pressure check at my local doctor's clinic. He told me I had high blood pressure...just. He told me to "keep an eye on it". "Sure thing doc, whatever," I thought to myself. Surely it was nothing to worry about.
A few years later I had surgery for a minor problem. And every time the hospital staff measured my blood pressure they were shocked and told me I had "quite high blood pressure". By now I was started to get worried about this - maybe I should do something about it, maybe I should learn more about blood pressure? I did what any normal person does - I "googled" it on the internet!
I was shocked to discover that even a 10 point rise in blood pressure can lead to a doubling in risk of a heart attack or stroke! They call it "the silent killer" because so many people have high blood pressure and they don't know it because it never shows any symptoms. I didn't want to be another statistic. I realized that I had to do something about it quickly or I risked losing my life before I wanted it to end.
Everywhere I looked said that you had to go on drugs. There are 4 types of drugs for high blood pressure and none of them were invented to treat the disease. They were invented for other conditions and the side effects were really bad. Dry mouth, frequently needing to urinate, dizziness, constipation, gout, poor sleep and even erectile dysfunction! The worst part was that you must take these drugs for the rest of your life! I went from being worried about by high blood pressure to feeling angry that this was to be my future. Why me?
I said to myself - there is no way I am going to take these debilitating drugs for the rest of my life. There must surely be another way. I committed myself to learning anything and everything about high blood pressure and how to get it back down without drugs. I spoke to everyone I could think of and listened with a completely open mind. What I learned shocked me.
I discovered that there is a sub-group of former hypertensives who have lowered their blood pressure with 100% natural methods. These people do not use any drugs whatsoever. So why did I have to look so hard to find this out? Why do doctors tell you that you must take drugs? Why is anybody taking drugs if you don't need them?
I realised that much of the medical industry is corrupt. Pharmaceutical companies pay millions of dollars to lobbyists every year to influence law making. Their sales representatives give kickbacks to healthcare organizations to encourage them to use their particular brand of drugs. And expensive patented drugs are promoted over more effective but cheaper generics because there's no money in them. Even so-called impartial clinical trials are secretly funded "off-book" to promote one drug over another. The result is that drugs get the limelight and natural methods unfairly take a back seat.I learned everything there was to know about these natural methods. And then I decided to use them on myself. If they can work for hundreds of thousands of people whose voices are drowned out by the medical money-making machine then surely they can work for me, right?
BLOOD CELLS INTRODUCTION-1
I know what brought you here today. I know just how bad it can feel to find out that high blood pressure is known as "the silent killer" and is responsible for millions of premature deaths every year. I understand what it's like to worry that you are just a timebomb waiting to happen - that you could drop dead at any moment because you're at higher risk of heart attack and stroke. I know what it's like to feel like you've got to do something soon before it's too late. You're not alone. I went through the same thing, being told I had "borderline" or "high" blood pressure by my doctor, the hospital and even the trainer at the gym. Eventually I realized that I had to do something about it, and quickly, or else I would have to pay the consequences - with my life...
What if I told you there was a simple, easy and cheap way to permanently lower your blood pressure without drugs?
"Who Needs Drugs Anyway?"
Chris, I tried the drugs but I got fed up of getting caught out all the time needing to take a leak.
Who needs drugs when you can do it naturally anyway?
Thanks Chris!
Chad, Boise
"Much Healthier 118/77"
Chris,
It was actually my doctor who told me I could cure my high blood pressure naturally. But I didn't have any idea what to do next.
My b.p. is now at a much healthier 118/77 thanks to you!
Rick, Chicago
"I Don't Have To Worry Anymore"
I don't have to worry anymore about always being there for my kids.
God bless you!
Tonya, San Antonio
What if I told you there was a simple, easy and cheap way to permanently lower your blood pressure without drugs?
"Who Needs Drugs Anyway?"
Chris, I tried the drugs but I got fed up of getting caught out all the time needing to take a leak.
Who needs drugs when you can do it naturally anyway?
Thanks Chris!
Chad, Boise
"Much Healthier 118/77"
Chris,
It was actually my doctor who told me I could cure my high blood pressure naturally. But I didn't have any idea what to do next.
My b.p. is now at a much healthier 118/77 thanks to you!
Rick, Chicago
"I Don't Have To Worry Anymore"
I don't have to worry anymore about always being there for my kids.
God bless you!
Tonya, San Antonio
Blood Pressure Guide
WARNING! Don't Even Think About Buying Another Blood Pressure Guide Until You've Read This...
"Chronic Hypertensive Finds A 100% Natural, Scientifically Proven Way To Lower Your Blood Pressure Without Drugs, And Finally Reveals The Easy Steps You Could Already Be Taking To Reach The Promised Land of BP 115/75"
"At last, you can find out for yourself the exact steps you need to take to lower your blood pressure easily and escape your otherwise destined future of dying premature due to heart disease or stroke. Stop abusing your body with drugs and their common and debilitating side effects. This step by step guide will reveal to you the exact, easy steps you need to take to naturally get to a normal blood pressure and enjoy a long and healthy life free of complications!"
"Chronic Hypertensive Finds A 100% Natural, Scientifically Proven Way To Lower Your Blood Pressure Without Drugs, And Finally Reveals The Easy Steps You Could Already Be Taking To Reach The Promised Land of BP 115/75"
"At last, you can find out for yourself the exact steps you need to take to lower your blood pressure easily and escape your otherwise destined future of dying premature due to heart disease or stroke. Stop abusing your body with drugs and their common and debilitating side effects. This step by step guide will reveal to you the exact, easy steps you need to take to naturally get to a normal blood pressure and enjoy a long and healthy life free of complications!"
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Frequently asked questions & ANSWERS
About blood
-
What is blood? How much blood does a person have?
-
What is the composition of blood?
-
What are the functions of these components?
-
How is blood formed?
-
What is haemoglobin?
-
What are blood groups?
-
What is the importance of knowing the blood groups?
-
Why is A group not given B group blood?
-
Why are Rh negative and Rh positive incompatible?
-
What is a unit of blood?
-
Can blood of animals be transfused to human beings?
-
How long can blood be stored?
-
Can we separate blood into its components?
Transfusion
-
In which situations do patients need blood transfusion?
-
Do you test all the collected blood?
-
What happens to patients in transfusions with incompatible blood (mismatched blood)?
Donating blood
-
In which situations do people generally donate blood?
-
Who is a healthy donor?
-
Does a donor need to do anything special before donation?
-
How long does the donation take?
-
Does the needle hurt the entire time?
-
Does the donor suffer from any harmful effects after donating blood donation?
-
Does a donor need to rest after donating blood?
-
Can a donor work after donating blood?
-
What special diet should a donor follow after giving blood?
-
How long will it take for the body to replenish the donated blood?
-
How frequently can a donor donate blood?
-
Do any diseases debar a donor from giving blood?
-
Are there any other benefits of blood donation?
Answers
Q:
What is blood? How much blood does a person have?
A:
Blood is the red coloured fluid flowing continuously in our body's circulatory system. About 1/12th of the body weight of a healthy individual is blood. On an average there are about 5 - 6 litres of blood present.
Q:
What is the composition of blood?
A:
Blood contains mainly a fluid called plasma in which are suspended cellular elements. Three types of cells - Red Blood Cells or RBC's, White Blood Cells or WBC's and tiny platelets form the cellular element.
Q:
What are the functions of these components?
A:
(a) Plasma: acts as a vehicle to carry many substances like glucose, fats, and proteins, enzymes, and hormones etc., in addition to the blood cells.
(b) Red Cells: carry oxygen from lungs to various body tissues and take back carbon dioxide from the cells and tissues to be thrown out of body in the form of exhaled air.
(c) White cells: mainly act as body scavengers and guards. They help in the immune system of the body and act as defence forces of the body killing the bacteria or any other organisms entering the body.
(d) Platelets: help in the clotting and coagulation of blood. We have experienced in our life that whenever we get injured the bleeding stops after a few minutes. This is brought about by a mechanism called clotting of blood in which platelets plays a very vital role.
Q:
How is blood formed?
A:
Blood consists of RBCs, WBCs, platelets suspended in plasma. In early embryonic life blood cells are formed in liver and spleen. But by the fifth month the Haemopoisis (i.e., formation of blood.) occurs in bone marrow and lymphatic tissues. At birth the entire bone marrow is red and active. Gradually as the child grows, the marrow remains red only in the flat bones and vertebrae. The RBC, grannulocytes of WBC and platelets are produced mainly by bone marrow. The lymphocytes, monocytes, plasma cells are formed in the lymphoid and Reticulo Endothelial tissues. The orderly proliferation of the cells in the bone marrow and their release into circulation is carefully regulated according to the needs of body. Every day, new blood cells are being produced in the bone marrow and every day old cells are dying and being removed from the body.
Red blood cells have a life of 120 days and when it becomes old and senile it is thrown out. White cells live for a few days and platelets for a few hours. Thus daily new cells are added to the circulation and old are removed from it.
Q:
What is haemoglobin?
A:
Haemoglobin is a substance present in the red cells. It is helpful in carrying oxygen and carbon dioxide. On an average, in a healthy male it should be between 14 - 16 gm % and in a female it should be about 12 - 14 gm %. This is also being daily synthesized and the new is replacing the old stock.
Q:
What are blood groups?
A:
Every individual has two types of blood groups. The first is called the ABO - grouping and the second type is called Rh - grouping.
In the ABO - group there are four categories namely A Group, B Group, O Group and AB Group.
In the Rh - Group either the individual is Rh-positive, or Rh-negative. Rh is a factor called as Rhesus factor that has come to us from Rhesus monkeys.
Thus each and very human being will fall in one of the following groups. A positive or A negative B positive or B negative O positive or O negative AB positive or AB negative There are also some sub groups as well as a few other classifications.
Q:
What is the importance of knowing the blood groups?
A:
For all practical and routine purposes, it is ideal to transfuse to the patient the same group of blood which he belongs to. It is only under very dire emergency that we take O group as universal donor and AB groups as universal recipient. Under no circumstances O group can get any other blood except O. Similarly A group patient cannot be given B group blood and vice versa.
Q:
Why is A group not given B group blood?
A:
This is due to the reason that, the blood of A Group people contains anti - B antibodies. In B group people there are anti - An antibodies. If we give A group blood to a B group patient, it is bound to be incompatible and will result in serious consequences.
Q:
Why are Rh negative and Rh positive incompatible?
A:
A patient with Rh-negative blood cannot be given Rh-positive blood as the antigen-antibody REACTIONS WILL RESULT IN SEVERE consequences.
In cases where a woman has Rh negative and her husband has Rh positive, the first child with Rh positive may be normal. But subsequently the woman may not conceive or may have repeated abortions. There may be intra uterine fetal death. If the child born is alive, it will suffer from a fatal disease called "Erythroblastosis Foetalis". Now mothers can be given an injection of anti-D within 24 hours of the delivery of a Rh-positive child and thus protect the next baby from this catastrophe.
Q:
What is a unit of blood?
A:
Blood is collected in plastic bags which contain a watery fluid which prevents blood from getting coagulated. On an average we draw about 450 ml. of blood from a person, depending on the weight of the donor. This blood, plus the amount of anti coagulant present in the bottle or bag, is known as one unit of blood.
Q:
Can blood of animals be transfused to human beings?
A:
Scientists have tried a lot but so far they are not successful. Only the blood of a human being can be transfused to a human patient.
Q:
How long can blood be stored?
A:
Whole blood can be stored up to 35 days, when kept in CPDA anti coagulant solution and refrigerated at 2 - 4 deg C. But the demand is so great that blood hardly ever remains in storage for so long and is used much before expiry.
Q:
Can we separate blood into its components?
A:
Yes! Now with technical advancements, we can make components of blood and store them. For example, plasma can be separated from whole blood and stored up to one year in frozen state at -80 deg C temperature or below. This is called Fresh Frozen Plasma. Similarly there are other components like Platelet Rich Plasma; Platelet Concentrate (can be stored as a life saving measure upto 5 days now at 22- 24 degrees C in a platelet incubator and agitator); Cryoprecipitate (which is very useful in treating bleeding disorders due to the deficiency of factor VIII and IX); Factor VIII and IX; Albumin, Globulin and many others.
In most progressive blood banks more than 85 % of the blood collected is converted into components and stored. This is because many patients do not require whole blood. For example, a patient whose hemoglobin is low and is therefore anemic, may just require Packed Cells i.e. only red cells; a patient with burns may need more of plasma than cells; a patient with hemophilia may require only Factor VIII.
Now with the advent of Cell-separators we can directly draw a particular component from the donor, while rest of the blood constituents go back to the donor.
Transfusion
Q:
In which situations do patients need blood transfusion?
A:
There are many situations in which patients need blood to stay alive:
A patient needs blood after a major accident in which there is loss of blood.
No major surgery is performed without blood as there is bound to be blood loss.
On an average, for every open heart surgery about 6 units of blood is required.
In miscarriage or childbirth, cases the patient may need large amount of blood to be transfused for saving her life and also the child's.
For patients with blood diseases like severe Anaemias especially Aplastic Anaemias, Leucaemias (blood cancer), Haemophilia (bleeding disorder), Thalassemia etc. repeated blood transfusions are the only solution.
In many other situations like poisoning, drug reactions, shock, burns, blood transfusion is the only way to save precious human life.
Q:
Do you test all the collected blood?
A:
Yes. ALL the blood in our blood bank is tested for AIDS, VDRL, jaundice (HBsAg, HCV), malaria etc. using the latest technology.
Q:
What happens to patients in transfusions with incompatible blood (mismatched blood)?
A:
The following symptoms may occur after only a few ml. of blood have been given:
1. Patient complains of shivering, restlessness, nausea, and vomiting. There is precardial and lumbar pain.
2. Cold, clammy skin with cyanosis.
3. Pulse rate increases, respiratory rate increases. Temperature increases to 38 to 40 deg C. [101 to 105 F].
4. Blood pressure falls and patient passes into a state of shock.
5. Haemoglobinaemia, haemoglobinurea (urine turns red); oliguria (urine becomes scanty or the urinary output is reduced) and anuria (total output of urine becomes 200 ml. a day)
6. Jaundice appears after a few hours and in some cases anuria persists and uremia develops. This may lead to death.
Donating Blood
Q:
In which situations do people generally donate blood?
A:
There are three types of blood donors: -
(1) PROFESSIONAL DONORS - They sell their blood, which is of very poor quality and can transmit very dangerous diseases to the recipient. It is illegal to take blood from any professional donor.
(2) REPLACEMENT DONATION - Healthy relatives and friends of the patient give their blood, of any group, to the blood bank. In exchange, the required number of units in the required blood group is given.
(3) VOLUNTARY DONATION- Here a donor donates blood voluntarily. The blood can be used for any patient even without divulging the identity of the donor. This is the best type of blood donation where a motivated human being gives blood in an act of selfless service.
Q:
Who is a healthy donor?
A:
Any person within the age group of 18 - 60 years with a body weight as minimum 45 kgs, and having hemoglobin content as minimum 12.5 gm%.
Q:
Does a donor need to do anything special before donation?
A:
The donor should eat at regular mealtimes and drink plenty of fluids.
Q:
How long does the donation take?
A:
The procedure is done by skilled, specially trained technicians and takes three to eight minutes. However, from start to finish (filling form, post donation rest etc) the entire process should take upwards of 35 minutes.
Q:
Does the needle hurt the entire time?
A:
There may be a little sting when the needle is inserted, but there should be no pain during the donation.
Q:
Does the donor suffer from any harmful effects after donating blood donation?
A:
Absolutely not, rather a donor after having given blood voluntarily gets a feeling of great pleasure, peace and bliss. Soon, within a period of 24 - 48 hours, the same amount of new blood gets formed in the body, which helps the donor in many ways. His own body resistance improves, the circulation improves, and he himself feels healthier than before.
Q:
Does a donor need to rest after donating blood?
A:
Yes. The donor needs rest, preferably lying down, so that the amount of blood that has been donated soon gets poured into the circulation from the body pools in a natural way. The donor should take it easy for about 15 - 20 minutes.
Q:
Can a donor work after donating blood?
A:
Of course! Routine work is absolutely fine after the initial rest. Rigorous physical work should be avoided for a few hours.
Q:
What special diet should a donor follow after giving blood?
A:
After resting for a while a donor is given some liquid (fluid) to take. It may be a cup of coffee or milk or fruit juice alongwith a few biscuits or fruit. The donor needs no other special diet. A routine balanced diet is adequate. The donor's blood gets replenished within 24 - 48 hours.
Q:
How long will it take for the body to replenish the blood?
A:
The body replaces blood volume or plasma within 24 hours. Red cells need about four to eight weeks for complete replacement.
Q:
How frequently a donor can donate blood?
A:
Three months time between donations is a very safe interval.
Q:
Do any diseases debar a donor from giving blood?
A:
Yes, if the donor has suffered from any of the under-mentioned diseases: -
Fever: He should not have suffered from fever for the past 15 days.
Jaundice: A donor should not have his blood tested positive for AUSTRALIA ANTIGEN.
Blood transmitted diseases: Like Syphilis, Malaria, Filaria etc. debar a donor from donating blood till he is treated and is free from them.
Drugs: If a donor is taking drugs like Aspirin, anti-hypertensive, anti-diabetics, hormones, corticosteroids etc., he is unfit to donate blood.
AIDS. No person having HIV positive can be allowed to donate blood.
Q:
Are there any other benefits of blood donation?
A:
Yes, blood donation is a noble, selfless service! It gives the donor a feeling of joy and contentment. Also this is an expression of love for Mankind, as blood knows no caste, colour, creed, religion or race, country, continent or sex.
-
What is blood? How much blood does a person have?
-
What is the composition of blood?
-
What are the functions of these components?
-
How is blood formed?
-
What is haemoglobin?
-
What are blood groups?
-
What is the importance of knowing the blood groups?
-
Why is A group not given B group blood?
-
Why are Rh negative and Rh positive incompatible?
-
What is a unit of blood?
-
Can blood of animals be transfused to human beings?
-
How long can blood be stored?
-
Can we separate blood into its components?
Transfusion
-
In which situations do patients need blood transfusion?
-
Do you test all the collected blood?
-
What happens to patients in transfusions with incompatible blood (mismatched blood)?
Donating blood
-
In which situations do people generally donate blood?
-
Who is a healthy donor?
-
Does a donor need to do anything special before donation?
-
How long does the donation take?
-
Does the needle hurt the entire time?
-
Does the donor suffer from any harmful effects after donating blood donation?
-
Does a donor need to rest after donating blood?
-
Can a donor work after donating blood?
-
What special diet should a donor follow after giving blood?
-
How long will it take for the body to replenish the donated blood?
-
How frequently can a donor donate blood?
-
Do any diseases debar a donor from giving blood?
-
Are there any other benefits of blood donation?
Answers
Q:
What is blood? How much blood does a person have?
A:
Blood is the red coloured fluid flowing continuously in our body's circulatory system. About 1/12th of the body weight of a healthy individual is blood. On an average there are about 5 - 6 litres of blood present.
Q:
What is the composition of blood?
A:
Blood contains mainly a fluid called plasma in which are suspended cellular elements. Three types of cells - Red Blood Cells or RBC's, White Blood Cells or WBC's and tiny platelets form the cellular element.
Q:
What are the functions of these components?
A:
(a) Plasma: acts as a vehicle to carry many substances like glucose, fats, and proteins, enzymes, and hormones etc., in addition to the blood cells.
(b) Red Cells: carry oxygen from lungs to various body tissues and take back carbon dioxide from the cells and tissues to be thrown out of body in the form of exhaled air.
(c) White cells: mainly act as body scavengers and guards. They help in the immune system of the body and act as defence forces of the body killing the bacteria or any other organisms entering the body.
(d) Platelets: help in the clotting and coagulation of blood. We have experienced in our life that whenever we get injured the bleeding stops after a few minutes. This is brought about by a mechanism called clotting of blood in which platelets plays a very vital role.
Q:
How is blood formed?
A:
Blood consists of RBCs, WBCs, platelets suspended in plasma. In early embryonic life blood cells are formed in liver and spleen. But by the fifth month the Haemopoisis (i.e., formation of blood.) occurs in bone marrow and lymphatic tissues. At birth the entire bone marrow is red and active. Gradually as the child grows, the marrow remains red only in the flat bones and vertebrae. The RBC, grannulocytes of WBC and platelets are produced mainly by bone marrow. The lymphocytes, monocytes, plasma cells are formed in the lymphoid and Reticulo Endothelial tissues. The orderly proliferation of the cells in the bone marrow and their release into circulation is carefully regulated according to the needs of body. Every day, new blood cells are being produced in the bone marrow and every day old cells are dying and being removed from the body.
Red blood cells have a life of 120 days and when it becomes old and senile it is thrown out. White cells live for a few days and platelets for a few hours. Thus daily new cells are added to the circulation and old are removed from it.
Q:
What is haemoglobin?
A:
Haemoglobin is a substance present in the red cells. It is helpful in carrying oxygen and carbon dioxide. On an average, in a healthy male it should be between 14 - 16 gm % and in a female it should be about 12 - 14 gm %. This is also being daily synthesized and the new is replacing the old stock.
Q:
What are blood groups?
A:
Every individual has two types of blood groups. The first is called the ABO - grouping and the second type is called Rh - grouping.
In the ABO - group there are four categories namely A Group, B Group, O Group and AB Group.
In the Rh - Group either the individual is Rh-positive, or Rh-negative. Rh is a factor called as Rhesus factor that has come to us from Rhesus monkeys.
Thus each and very human being will fall in one of the following groups. A positive or A negative B positive or B negative O positive or O negative AB positive or AB negative There are also some sub groups as well as a few other classifications.
Q:
What is the importance of knowing the blood groups?
A:
For all practical and routine purposes, it is ideal to transfuse to the patient the same group of blood which he belongs to. It is only under very dire emergency that we take O group as universal donor and AB groups as universal recipient. Under no circumstances O group can get any other blood except O. Similarly A group patient cannot be given B group blood and vice versa.
Q:
Why is A group not given B group blood?
A:
This is due to the reason that, the blood of A Group people contains anti - B antibodies. In B group people there are anti - An antibodies. If we give A group blood to a B group patient, it is bound to be incompatible and will result in serious consequences.
Q:
Why are Rh negative and Rh positive incompatible?
A:
A patient with Rh-negative blood cannot be given Rh-positive blood as the antigen-antibody REACTIONS WILL RESULT IN SEVERE consequences.
In cases where a woman has Rh negative and her husband has Rh positive, the first child with Rh positive may be normal. But subsequently the woman may not conceive or may have repeated abortions. There may be intra uterine fetal death. If the child born is alive, it will suffer from a fatal disease called "Erythroblastosis Foetalis". Now mothers can be given an injection of anti-D within 24 hours of the delivery of a Rh-positive child and thus protect the next baby from this catastrophe.
Q:
What is a unit of blood?
A:
Blood is collected in plastic bags which contain a watery fluid which prevents blood from getting coagulated. On an average we draw about 450 ml. of blood from a person, depending on the weight of the donor. This blood, plus the amount of anti coagulant present in the bottle or bag, is known as one unit of blood.
Q:
Can blood of animals be transfused to human beings?
A:
Scientists have tried a lot but so far they are not successful. Only the blood of a human being can be transfused to a human patient.
Q:
How long can blood be stored?
A:
Whole blood can be stored up to 35 days, when kept in CPDA anti coagulant solution and refrigerated at 2 - 4 deg C. But the demand is so great that blood hardly ever remains in storage for so long and is used much before expiry.
Q:
Can we separate blood into its components?
A:
Yes! Now with technical advancements, we can make components of blood and store them. For example, plasma can be separated from whole blood and stored up to one year in frozen state at -80 deg C temperature or below. This is called Fresh Frozen Plasma. Similarly there are other components like Platelet Rich Plasma; Platelet Concentrate (can be stored as a life saving measure upto 5 days now at 22- 24 degrees C in a platelet incubator and agitator); Cryoprecipitate (which is very useful in treating bleeding disorders due to the deficiency of factor VIII and IX); Factor VIII and IX; Albumin, Globulin and many others.
In most progressive blood banks more than 85 % of the blood collected is converted into components and stored. This is because many patients do not require whole blood. For example, a patient whose hemoglobin is low and is therefore anemic, may just require Packed Cells i.e. only red cells; a patient with burns may need more of plasma than cells; a patient with hemophilia may require only Factor VIII.
Now with the advent of Cell-separators we can directly draw a particular component from the donor, while rest of the blood constituents go back to the donor.
Transfusion
Q:
In which situations do patients need blood transfusion?
A:
There are many situations in which patients need blood to stay alive:
A patient needs blood after a major accident in which there is loss of blood.
No major surgery is performed without blood as there is bound to be blood loss.
On an average, for every open heart surgery about 6 units of blood is required.
In miscarriage or childbirth, cases the patient may need large amount of blood to be transfused for saving her life and also the child's.
For patients with blood diseases like severe Anaemias especially Aplastic Anaemias, Leucaemias (blood cancer), Haemophilia (bleeding disorder), Thalassemia etc. repeated blood transfusions are the only solution.
In many other situations like poisoning, drug reactions, shock, burns, blood transfusion is the only way to save precious human life.
Q:
Do you test all the collected blood?
A:
Yes. ALL the blood in our blood bank is tested for AIDS, VDRL, jaundice (HBsAg, HCV), malaria etc. using the latest technology.
Q:
What happens to patients in transfusions with incompatible blood (mismatched blood)?
A:
The following symptoms may occur after only a few ml. of blood have been given:
1. Patient complains of shivering, restlessness, nausea, and vomiting. There is precardial and lumbar pain.
2. Cold, clammy skin with cyanosis.
3. Pulse rate increases, respiratory rate increases. Temperature increases to 38 to 40 deg C. [101 to 105 F].
4. Blood pressure falls and patient passes into a state of shock.
5. Haemoglobinaemia, haemoglobinurea (urine turns red); oliguria (urine becomes scanty or the urinary output is reduced) and anuria (total output of urine becomes 200 ml. a day)
6. Jaundice appears after a few hours and in some cases anuria persists and uremia develops. This may lead to death.
Donating Blood
Q:
In which situations do people generally donate blood?
A:
There are three types of blood donors: -
(1) PROFESSIONAL DONORS - They sell their blood, which is of very poor quality and can transmit very dangerous diseases to the recipient. It is illegal to take blood from any professional donor.
(2) REPLACEMENT DONATION - Healthy relatives and friends of the patient give their blood, of any group, to the blood bank. In exchange, the required number of units in the required blood group is given.
(3) VOLUNTARY DONATION- Here a donor donates blood voluntarily. The blood can be used for any patient even without divulging the identity of the donor. This is the best type of blood donation where a motivated human being gives blood in an act of selfless service.
Q:
Who is a healthy donor?
A:
Any person within the age group of 18 - 60 years with a body weight as minimum 45 kgs, and having hemoglobin content as minimum 12.5 gm%.
Q:
Does a donor need to do anything special before donation?
A:
The donor should eat at regular mealtimes and drink plenty of fluids.
Q:
How long does the donation take?
A:
The procedure is done by skilled, specially trained technicians and takes three to eight minutes. However, from start to finish (filling form, post donation rest etc) the entire process should take upwards of 35 minutes.
Q:
Does the needle hurt the entire time?
A:
There may be a little sting when the needle is inserted, but there should be no pain during the donation.
Q:
Does the donor suffer from any harmful effects after donating blood donation?
A:
Absolutely not, rather a donor after having given blood voluntarily gets a feeling of great pleasure, peace and bliss. Soon, within a period of 24 - 48 hours, the same amount of new blood gets formed in the body, which helps the donor in many ways. His own body resistance improves, the circulation improves, and he himself feels healthier than before.
Q:
Does a donor need to rest after donating blood?
A:
Yes. The donor needs rest, preferably lying down, so that the amount of blood that has been donated soon gets poured into the circulation from the body pools in a natural way. The donor should take it easy for about 15 - 20 minutes.
Q:
Can a donor work after donating blood?
A:
Of course! Routine work is absolutely fine after the initial rest. Rigorous physical work should be avoided for a few hours.
Q:
What special diet should a donor follow after giving blood?
A:
After resting for a while a donor is given some liquid (fluid) to take. It may be a cup of coffee or milk or fruit juice alongwith a few biscuits or fruit. The donor needs no other special diet. A routine balanced diet is adequate. The donor's blood gets replenished within 24 - 48 hours.
Q:
How long will it take for the body to replenish the blood?
A:
The body replaces blood volume or plasma within 24 hours. Red cells need about four to eight weeks for complete replacement.
Q:
How frequently a donor can donate blood?
A:
Three months time between donations is a very safe interval.
Q:
Do any diseases debar a donor from giving blood?
A:
Yes, if the donor has suffered from any of the under-mentioned diseases: -
Fever: He should not have suffered from fever for the past 15 days.
Jaundice: A donor should not have his blood tested positive for AUSTRALIA ANTIGEN.
Blood transmitted diseases: Like Syphilis, Malaria, Filaria etc. debar a donor from donating blood till he is treated and is free from them.
Drugs: If a donor is taking drugs like Aspirin, anti-hypertensive, anti-diabetics, hormones, corticosteroids etc., he is unfit to donate blood.
AIDS. No person having HIV positive can be allowed to donate blood.
Q:
Are there any other benefits of blood donation?
A:
Yes, blood donation is a noble, selfless service! It gives the donor a feeling of joy and contentment. Also this is an expression of love for Mankind, as blood knows no caste, colour, creed, religion or race, country, continent or sex.
Frequently asked questions
About blood
-
What is blood? How much blood does a person have?
-
What is the composition of blood?
-
What are the functions of these components?
-
How is blood formed?
-
What is haemoglobin?
-
What are blood groups?
-
What is the importance of knowing the blood groups?
-
Why is A group not given B group blood?
-
Why are Rh negative and Rh positive incompatible?
-
What is a unit of blood?
-
Can blood of animals be transfused to human beings?
-
How long can blood be stored?
-
Can we separate blood into its components?
Transfusion
-
In which situations do patients need blood transfusion?
-
Do you test all the collected blood?
-
What happens to patients in transfusions with incompatible blood (mismatched blood)?
Donating blood
-
In which situations do people generally donate blood?
-
Who is a healthy donor?
-
Does a donor need to do anything special before donation?
-
How long does the donation take?
-
Does the needle hurt the entire time?
-
Does the donor suffer from any harmful effects after donating blood donation?
-
Does a donor need to rest after donating blood?
-
Can a donor work after donating blood?
-
What special diet should a donor follow after giving blood?
-
How long will it take for the body to replenish the donated blood?
-
How frequently can a donor donate blood?
-
Do any diseases debar a donor from giving blood?
-
Are there any other benefits of blood donation?
-
What is blood? How much blood does a person have?
-
What is the composition of blood?
-
What are the functions of these components?
-
How is blood formed?
-
What is haemoglobin?
-
What are blood groups?
-
What is the importance of knowing the blood groups?
-
Why is A group not given B group blood?
-
Why are Rh negative and Rh positive incompatible?
-
What is a unit of blood?
-
Can blood of animals be transfused to human beings?
-
How long can blood be stored?
-
Can we separate blood into its components?
Transfusion
-
In which situations do patients need blood transfusion?
-
Do you test all the collected blood?
-
What happens to patients in transfusions with incompatible blood (mismatched blood)?
Donating blood
-
In which situations do people generally donate blood?
-
Who is a healthy donor?
-
Does a donor need to do anything special before donation?
-
How long does the donation take?
-
Does the needle hurt the entire time?
-
Does the donor suffer from any harmful effects after donating blood donation?
-
Does a donor need to rest after donating blood?
-
Can a donor work after donating blood?
-
What special diet should a donor follow after giving blood?
-
How long will it take for the body to replenish the donated blood?
-
How frequently can a donor donate blood?
-
Do any diseases debar a donor from giving blood?
-
Are there any other benefits of blood donation?
BLOOD BAG-QUANTITY
Blood
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BLOOD BAG-QUANTITY
Blood
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Monday, August 24, 2009
The Need For Blood
The Need For Blood
More than 4.5 million patients need blood transfusions each year in the US and Canada. would die each year without life saving blood transfusions.
43,000 pints of donated blood are used each day in the US and Canada.
Every three seconds someone needs blood.On average, one out of every 7 people entering the hospital will need blood.
Blood banks often run short of type O and B blood.
The average red-cell transfusion amounts to 2.7 pints.
How Blood Helps
Each unit of donated blood can be separated into several components (red cells, plasma, platelets, cryoprecipitate).
As components, just one pint of donated blood can help up to 3 people.
Among 100% of Americans, Blood Types Are Distributed As Follows:
How Blood Works
Healthy bone marrow makes red cells, plasma, and platelets constantly.
Blood components fight infection and helps heal wounds.
Red cells carry oxygen to organs and body tissues.
Platelets help blood clot and may give people with leukemia and other cancers a chance to live.
Blood Donation
Must be healthy, 17 or older, and weigh 110 pounds or more.
Minimum time between donations is 56 days.
Each donated pint of blood can help up to 3 people.Giving blood takes 45-60 minutes for the entire process (actual donation takes just 7-10 minutes; the rest of the time is for registration, health screening, and rest/snack period).
It’s A Fact...
Blood makes up about 7% of your body's weight.A newborn baby has about one cup (8 ounces) of blood in his or her body.
There are four main blood types: A, B, AB and O. AB is the “universal recipient” and O negative is the “universal donor”.
Shortages of all types of blood most often occur during summer and winter holidays.
Giving blood will not decrease your strength.
You cannot get AIDS or any other infectious disease by donating blood.
Download more fascinating facts about blood and blood donation!
More than 4.5 million patients need blood transfusions each year in the US and Canada. would die each year without life saving blood transfusions.
43,000 pints of donated blood are used each day in the US and Canada.
Every three seconds someone needs blood.On average, one out of every 7 people entering the hospital will need blood.
Blood banks often run short of type O and B blood.
The average red-cell transfusion amounts to 2.7 pints.
How Blood Helps
Each unit of donated blood can be separated into several components (red cells, plasma, platelets, cryoprecipitate).
As components, just one pint of donated blood can help up to 3 people.
Among 100% of Americans, Blood Types Are Distributed As Follows:
How Blood Works
Healthy bone marrow makes red cells, plasma, and platelets constantly.
Blood components fight infection and helps heal wounds.
Red cells carry oxygen to organs and body tissues.
Platelets help blood clot and may give people with leukemia and other cancers a chance to live.
Blood Donation
Must be healthy, 17 or older, and weigh 110 pounds or more.
Minimum time between donations is 56 days.
Each donated pint of blood can help up to 3 people.Giving blood takes 45-60 minutes for the entire process (actual donation takes just 7-10 minutes; the rest of the time is for registration, health screening, and rest/snack period).
It’s A Fact...
Blood makes up about 7% of your body's weight.A newborn baby has about one cup (8 ounces) of blood in his or her body.
There are four main blood types: A, B, AB and O. AB is the “universal recipient” and O negative is the “universal donor”.
Shortages of all types of blood most often occur during summer and winter holidays.
Giving blood will not decrease your strength.
You cannot get AIDS or any other infectious disease by donating blood.
Download more fascinating facts about blood and blood donation!
Storage, supply and demand
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The collected blood is usually stored as separate components, and some of these have short shelf lives. There are no storage solutions to keep platelets for extended periods of time, though some are being studied as of 2008,[73] and the longest shelf life used is seven days.[74] Red blood cells, the most frequently used component, have a shelf life of 35–42 days at refrigerated temperatures.[75][76] This can be extended by freezing the blood with a mixture of glycerol[35] but this process is expensive, rarely done, and requires an extremely cold freezer for storage. Plasma can be stored frozen for an extended period of time and is typically given an expiration date of one year[77] and maintaining a supply is less of a problem.
The limited storage time means that it is difficult to have a stockpile of blood to prepare for a disaster. The subject was discussed at length after the September 11th attacks in the United States, and the consensus was that collecting during a disaster was impractical and that efforts should be focused on maintaining an adequate supply at all times.[78] Blood centers in the U.S. often have difficulty maintaining even a three day supply for routine transfusion demands.[79]
The World Health Organization recognizes World Blood Donor Day on 14th June each year to promote blood donation. This is the birthday of Karl Landsteiner, the scientist who discovered the ABO blood group system.[80] As of 2008, the WHO estimated that more than 81 million units of blood were being collected annually.[81]
[edit] Benefits and incentives
The World Health Organization set a goal in 1997 for all blood donations to come from unpaid volunteer donors,[13] but as of 2006, only 49 of 124 countries surveyed had established this as a standard. Plasmapheresis donors in the United States are still paid for donations.[82] A few countries rely on paid donors to maintain an adequate supply.[83] Some countries, such as Tanzania, have made great strides in moving towards this standard, with 20 percent of donors in 2005 being unpaid volunteers and 80 percent in 2007,[6] but 68 of 124 countries surveyed by WHO had made little or no progress. In some countries, for example Brazil,[84] it is against the law to receive any compensation, monetary or otherwise, for the donation of blood or other human tissues.
In patients prone to iron overload, blood donation prevents the accumulation of toxic quantities.[85] Blood banks in the United States must label the blood if it is from a therapeutic donor, so most do not accept donations from donors with any blood disease.[86] Others, such as the Australian Red Cross Blood Service, accept blood from donors with hemochromatosis. It is a genetic disorder that does not affect the safety of the blood.[87] Donating blood may reduce the risk of heart disease for men,[88] but the link has not been firmly established. Also, donating one pint of blood causes the donor to burn approximately 650 calories.[89]
Other incentives are sometimes added by employers, usually time off for the purposes of donating.[90] Blood centers will also sometimes add incentives such as assurances that donors would have priority during shortages, free tshirts or other small trinkets (e.g., first aid kits, windshield scrapers, pens, etc.), or other programs such as prize drawings for donors and rewards for organizers of successful drives.[91] Most allogeneic blood donors donate as an act of charity and do not expect to receive any direct benefit from the donation.[92]
[edit] See also
List of blood donation agencies
Blood transfusion
Plateletpheresis
Bloodletting
MSM blood donor controversy
Blood substitutes
[edit] References
^ http://www.givelife2.org/donor/faq.asp#3 FAQs About Donating Blood
^ a b "Blood donation: What to expect". Mayo Clinic. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/blood-donation/GA00039. Retrieved 2008-12-03.
^ M. E. Brecher, Editor (2005), AABB Technical Manual, fifteenth edition, Bethesda, MD: AABB, ISBN 1-56935-19607, p.98-103
^ "Directed Donation". Mayo Clinic. http://www.mayoclinic.org/donateblood/directed.html. Retrieved 2008-06-25.
^ Wales PW, Lau W, Kim PC (May 2001). "Directed blood donation in pediatric general surgery: Is it worth it?". J. Pediatr. Surg. 36 (5): 722–5. doi:10.1053/jpsu.2001.22945. PMID 11329574.
^ a b T. Brown "Strengthening Blood Systems In Africa: Progress Under PEPFAR and Remaining Challenges" AABB News. April, 1998:page 30
^ "Autologous (self-donated) Blood as an Alternative to Allogeneic (donor-donated) Blood Transfusion". AABB. http://www.aabb.org/Content/About_Blood/Facts_About_Blood_and_Blood_Banking/fabloodautoallo.htm. Retrieved 2008-06-25.
^ "Recovered Plasma". AABB. http://www.aabb.org/Content/Members_Area/Members_Area_Regulatory/Blood_Component_Preparation_and_Testing/plasbpac061302.htm. Retrieved 2008-06-25.
^ "Giving Blood -> What to Expect". Australian Red Cross Blood Service. http://www.donateblood.com.au/page.aspx?IDDataTreeMenu=45&parent=31. Retrieved 2007-10-06.
^ "The Donation Experience". Canadian Blood Services. http://www.bloodservices.ca/centreapps/internet/uw_v502_mainengine.nsf/page/The%20Donation%20Experience?OpenDocument. Retrieved 2006-12-17.
^ "Tips for a Good Donation Experience". American Red Cross. http://www.givelife2.org/donor/tips.asp. Retrieved 2006-12-17.
^ "WHO Blood Safety and Donation". World Health Organization. http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs279/en/. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ a b c "World Blood Donor Day 2006". World Health Organization. http://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/releases/2006/pr33/en/index.html. Retrieved 2008-06-26.
^ "Sponsoring a Blood Drive". American Red Cross. http://www.givelife2.org/sponsor/. Retrieved 2008-06-25.
^ "Parental consent form" (pdf). Australian Red Cross Blood Service. http://www.donateblood.com.au/admin%5Cfile%5Ccontent1%5Cc5%5Cwaconsent%20.pdf. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "FDA regulations on donor deferral". US Food and Drug Administration. http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?fr=610.41. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "Donors' Races to Be Sought To Identify Rare Blood Types". New York Times. http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9C0CEEDC123DF930A25752C0A966958260. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "Red Gold, Innovators and Pioneers". Public Broadcasting Service (United States). http://www.pbs.org/wnet/redgold/innovators/bio_drew.html. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "Drug Agency Reaffirms Ban on Gay Men Giving Blood". New York Times. http://www.nytimes.com/2007/05/24/washington/24blood.html?_r=2&oref=slogin. Retrieved 2009-03-26.
^ Heim MU, Mempel W (1991). "[The need for thorough infection screening in donors of autologous blood]" (in German). Beitr Infusionsther 28: 313–6. PMID 1725645.
^ "Avodart consumer information". US Food and Drug Administration. http://www.fda.gov/cder/consumerinfo/druginfo/avodart.htm. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "AABB Full-Length Donor History Questionnaire (UDHQ)". AABB, U.S. Food and Drug Administration. http://www.fda.gov/cber/dhq/dhq11/dhq11a.htm. Retrieved 2008-06-25.
^ "Donor Qualification criteria". Héma-Québec, Canada. http://www.hema-quebec.qc.ca/anglais/dondesang/qualifidonneurs.htm. Retrieved 2006-12-17.
^ "Guidelines for UK Blood Services". UK Blood and Tissue Services. http://transfusionguidelines.org.uk/Index.aspx?Publication=RB&Section=25&pageid=546. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ Gómez-Simón A, Navarro-Núñez L, Pérez-Ceballos E, et al. (Jun 2007). "Evaluation of four rapid methods for hemoglobin screening of whole blood donors in mobile collection settings". Transfus. Apher. Sci. 36 (3): 235–42. doi:10.1016/j.transci.2007.01.010. PMID 17556020.
^ Goldman M, Fournier E, Cameron-Choi K, Steed T (May 2007). "Effect of changing the age criteria for blood donors". Vox Sang. 92 (4): 368–72. doi:10.1111/j.1423-0410.2007.00897.x. PMID 17456161.
^ "Donating - Frequently Asked Questions". Blood Bank of Alaska. http://www.bloodbankofalaska.org/donating/faq.html. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "Blood Type Test". WebMD.com. http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/blood-type-test. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "Plasma fact sheet". American Red Cross. http://donatebloodnow.org/apheresis/docs/Plasma_Fact%20Sheet.pdf.
^ Bhattacharya P, Chandra PK, Datta S, et al. (Jul 2007). "Significant increase in HBV, HCV, HIV and syphilis infections among blood donors in West Bengal, Eastern India 2004-2005: exploratory screening reveals high frequency of occult HBV infection". World J. Gastroenterol. 13 (27): 3730–3. PMID 17659734. http://www.wjgnet.com/1007-9327/13/3730.asp.
^ "Testing of Donor Blood for infectious disease". AABB. http://www.aabb.org/Content/About_Blood/Facts_About_Blood_and_Blood_Banking/fabloodtesting.htm. Retrieved 2008-06-25.
^ R. Miller, P.E. Hewitt, R. Warwick, M.C. Moore, B. Vincent (1998). "Review of counselling in a transfusion service: the London (UK) experience". Vox Sang 74 (3): 133–9. doi:10.1046/j.1423-0410.1998.7430133.x. PMID 9595639.
^ "Advisory Committe on MSBTO, 28 June 2005". http://www.advisorybodies.doh.gov.uk/acmsbtt/msbtsum280605.pdf. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "Precautionary West Nile virus blood sample testing". Héma-Québec, Canada. http://www.hema-quebec.qc.ca/anglais/centredepresse/coms2005/20050808.htm. Retrieved 2006-12-17.
^ a b c d "Circular of Information for use of Blood and Blood Products" (pdf). AABB, ARC, America's Blood Centers. http://www.aabb.org/Documents/About_Blood/Circulars_of_Information/coi0702.pdf.
^ "Red blood cell transfusions in newborn infants: Revised guidelines". Canadian Paediatric Society (CPS). http://www.cps.ca/english/statements/fn/fn02-02.htm#What%20type%20of%20RBCs%20should%20be%20used. Retrieved 2007-02-02.
^ Sagi E, Eyal F, Armon Y, Arad I, Robinson M (Nov 1981). "Exchange transfusion in newborns via a peripheral artery and vein". Eur. J. Pediatr. 137 (3): 283–4. doi:10.1007/BF00443258. PMID 7318840. http://www.springerlink.com/content/u18xn2491012nr8x/.
^ "Blood on the Hoof". Public Broadcasting Service. http://www.pbs.org/wnet/redgold/basics/bloodonhoof.html. Retrieved 2008-06-25.
^ "ISBT Quarterly Newsletter, June 2006, "A History of Fresh Blood", page 15" (pdf). International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT/SITS). http://www.isbt-web.org/files/tt/TT63.pdf. Retrieved 2008-07-31.
^ a b Lee CK, Ho PL, Chan NK, Mak A, Hong J, Lin CK (Oct 2002). "Impact of donor arm skin disinfection on the bacterial contamination rate of platelet concentrates". Vox Sang. 83 (3): 204–8. doi:10.1046/j.1423-0410.2002.00219.x. PMID 12366760. http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/doi/abs/10.1046/j.1423-0410.2002.00219.x.
^ M. L. Turgeon (2004). Clinical Hematology: Theory and Procedures (fourth ed.). Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. pp. 30. ISBN 0781750075. http://books.google.com/books?id=v2iyQBKx00kC&pg=PA30&lpg=PA30&dq=phlebotomy+complications&source=web&ots=GSRbgp8ydH&sig=T4APht_sZdr-zDtw0BfNu6vD-zU&hl=en&sa=X&oi=book_result&resnum=6&ct=result#PPA30,M1. Retrieved 2008-06-21.
^ One major manufacturer of collection sets uses a 16 gauge (1.651 mm) size "Blood banking laboratory supplies". Genesis BPS. http://www.genesisbps.com/PDF/blood_bags_terumo.pdf. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "What is Hemolysis?". Becton-Dickinson. http://www.bd.com/vacutainer/pdfs/techtalk/TechTalk_Jan2004_VS7167.pdf. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ Akerblom O, Kreuger A (1975). "Studies on citrate-phosphate-dextrose (CPD) blood supplemented with adenine". Vox Sang. 29 (2): 90–100. doi:10.1111/j.1423-0410.1975.tb00484.x. PMID 238338.
^ "Plasma Equipment and Packaging, and Transfusion Equipment". Office of Medical History (OTSG). http://history.amedd.army.mil/booksdocs/wwii/blood/chapter7.htm. Retrieved 2008-06-19.
^ "Medicines derived from human plasma". Sanquin Blood Supply Foundation. http://www.sanquin.nl/Sanquin-eng/sqn_From_blood_to_medicine.nsf/All/Plasma-Fractionation---Medicines-Derived-From-Plasma.html. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "Indications for Platelet Transfusion Therapy". Southeastern Community Blood Center. http://www.scbcinfo.org/publications/bulletin_v2_n2.htm. Retrieved 2008-06-10.
^ ""Double Up to Save Lives"". United Blood Services. http://www.unitedbloodservices.org/automation.html. Retrieved 2007-02-23.
^ ""Double the Difference"". American Red Cross (Greater Chesapeake and Potomac). http://www.my-redcross.org/index.cfm/p/Double-Red-Cell. Retrieved 2007-02-23.
^ Eder AF, Hillyer CD, Dy BA, Notari EP, Benjamin RJ (May 2008). "Adverse reactions to allogeneic whole blood donation by 16- and 17-year-olds". JAMA 299 (19): 2279–86. doi:10.1001/jama.299.19.2279. PMID 18492969.
^ "Report on the promotion by Member States of voluntary unpaid blood donation". Commission of the European Communities. http://siba2.unile.it/ese/issues/288/660/RelazDonazSanguigne_p6.pdf. Retrieved 2008-06-26.
^ "Donating Apheresis and Plasma". Community Blood Center. http://www.cbccts.org/donating/automated.htm. Retrieved 2008-06-11.
^ Pottgiesser T, Specker W, Umhau M, Dickhuth HH, Roecker K, Schumacher YO (Jul 2008). "Recovery of hemoglobin mass after blood donation". Transfusion 48 (7): 1390–7. doi:10.1111/j.1537-2995.2008.01719.x. PMID 18466177.
^ "Blood Products Advisory Committee, 12 December 2003". http://www.fda.gov/ohrms/dockets/ac/03/transcripts/4014T2.htm. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "Blood Donation". Hong Kong Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service. http://www5.ha.org.hk/rcbts/e_donation.html. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "Before and after giving blood". Australian Red Cross Blood Service. http://www.donateblood.com.au/page.aspx?IDDataTreeMenu=48&parent=31. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "Donating Whole Blood". Lane Memorial Blood Bank. http://www.lmbb.org/whole_blood.html. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "Who can't give blood". National Blood Service for England and Wales. https://secure.blood.co.uk/c11_cant.asp. Retrieved 2009-02-026.
^ A.F. Eder, C.D. Hillyer, B.A. Dy, E.P. Notari, R.J. Benjamin (May 2008). "Adverse reactions to allogeneic whole blood donation by 16- and 17-year-olds". JAMA 299 (19): 2279–86. doi:10.1001/jama.299.19.2279. PMID 18492969. http://jama.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/full/299/19/2279.
^ Yuan S, Gornbein J, Smeltzer B, Ziman AF, Lu Q, Goldfinger D (Jun 2008). "Risk factors for acute, moderate to severe donor reactions associated with multicomponent apheresis collections". Transfusion 48 (6): 1213–9. doi:10.1111/j.1537-2995.2008.01674.x. PMID 18346014.
^ "Adverse Effect of Blood Donation, Siriraj Experience". American Red Cross. http://www.redcross.or.th/extra/blood_seminar_50/files/211_1525-1536.pdf. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ B. Newman, S. Graves (2001). "A study of 178 consecutive vasovagal syncopal reactions from the perspective of safety". Transfusion 41 (12): 1475–9. doi:10.1046/j.1537-2995.2001.41121475.x. PMID 11778059.
^ "Fatalities Reported to FDA". US Food and Drug Administration. http://www.fda.gov/Cber/blood/fatal0506.htm#g. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ Wiltbank TB, Giordano GF, Kamel H, Tomasulo P, Custer B (May 2008). "Faint and prefaint reactions in whole-blood donors: an analysis of predonation measurements and their predictive value". Transfusion 48: 1799. doi:10.1111/j.1537-2995.2008.01745.x. PMID 18482188.
^ Ranasinghe E, Harrison JF (Jun 2000). "Bruising following blood donation, its management and the response and subsequent return rates of affected donors". Transfus Med 10 (2): 113–6. doi:10.1046/j.1365-3148.2000.00240.x. PMID 10849380. http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/openurl?genre=article&sid=nlm:pubmed&issn=0958-7578&date=2000&volume=10&issue=2&spage=113.
^ Working Group on Complications Related to Blood Donation JF (2008). "[http://www.isbt-web.org/members_only/files/society/StandardSurveillanceDOCO.pdf Standard for Surveillance of Complications Related to Blood D Donation]". European Haemovigilance Network: 11. http://www.isbt-web.org/members_only/files/society/StandardSurveillanceDOCO.pdf.
^ Bolan CD, Greer SE, Cecco SA, Oblitas JM, Rehak NN, Leitman SF (Sep 2001). "Comprehensive analysis of citrate effects during plateletpheresis in normal donors". Transfusion 41 (9): 1165–71. doi:10.1046/j.1537-2995.2001.41091165.x. PMID 11552076. http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/openurl?genre=article&sid=nlm:pubmed&issn=0041-1132&date=2001&volume=41&issue=9&spage=1165.
^ "Jerome H. Holland Laboratory for the Biomedical Sciences Volunteer Research Blood Program (RBP)". American Red Cross. http://www.redcross.org/services/biomed/0,1082,0_543_,00.html. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ Wiltbank TB, Giordano GF (Jun 2007). "The safety profile of automated collections: an analysis of more than 1 million collections". Transfusion 47 (6): 1002–5. doi:10.1111/j.1537-2995.2007.01224.x. PMID 17524089.
^ "Blood Donor Information Leaflet". Irish Blood Transfusion Service. http://www.ibts.ie/generic.cfm?mID=2&sID=9. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "Keeping China's blood supply free of HIV". US Embassy, Beijing. http://www.usembassy-china.org.cn/sandt/webaids5.htm. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ Cohen J (Jun 2004). "HIV/AIDS in China. An unsafe practice turned blood donors into victims". Science (journal) 304 (5676): 1438–9. doi:10.1126/science.304.5676.1438. PMID 15178781. http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/summary/304/5676/1438.
^ "In Vitro Evaluation of Buffy Coat Derived Platelet Concentrates in SSP+ Platelet Storage Medium". Transfusion Medicine (Blackwell Publishing. http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/bsc/trans/2006/00000016/A00101s1/art00057. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "Transfusion Handbook, summary information for Platelets". National Blood Transfusion Committee. http://transfusionguidelines.org.uk/index.asp?Publication=HTM&Section=9&pageid=1106. Retrieved 2008-06-02.
^ Lockwood WB, Hudgens RW, Szymanski IO, Teno RA, Gray AD (Nov 2003). "Effects of rejuvenation and frozen storage on 42-day-old AS-3 RBCs". Transfusion 43 (11): 1527–32. doi:10.1046/j.1537-2995.2003.00551.x. PMID 14617310. http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/openurl?genre=article&sid=nlm:pubmed&issn=0041-1132&date=2003&volume=43&issue=11&spage=1527.
^ "Transfusion handbook, Summary information for Red Blood Cells". National Blood Transfusion Committee. http://transfusionguidelines.org.uk/Index.aspx?Publication=HTM&Section=9&pageid=1105. Retrieved 2008-06-02.
^ "Transfusion of Fresh Frozen Plasma, products, indications". Agence française de sécurité sanitaire des produits de santé. http://agmed.sante.gouv.fr/ang/pdf/glffpl.pdf. Retrieved 2008-06-02.
^ "Maintaining an Adequate Blood Supply Is Key to Emergency Preparedness". Government Accountability Office. http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d021095t.pdf. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "Current status of America's Blood Centers blood supply". America's Blood Centers. http://members.americasblood.org/plsql/ecat/supply_monitor_pkg.web_report.
^ "World Blood Donor Day". World Health Organization. http://www.wbdd.org/index.php?id=24. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs279/en/
^ "Blood Plasma Safety". GAO. http://www.gao.gov/archive/1998/he98205.pdf. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ G. A. Schmunis (corresponding author for PAHO) (Jan 2005). "Safety of the Blood Supply in Latin America". Clinical Microbiology Reviews 18: 12. doi:10.1128/CMR.18.1.12-29.2005. PMID 15653816.
^ L. Fusco "From Latin America to Asia, Rising Above Difficulties, Achieving New Heights" AABB News. April, 1998:page 30
^ Fields AC, Grindon AJ (1999). "Hemochromatosis, iron, and blood donation: a short review". Immunohematology 15 (3): 108–12. PMID 15373512.
^ "Variances for Blood Collection from Individuals with Hereditary Hemochromatosis". US Food and Drug Administration. http://www.fda.gov/cber/gdlns/hemchrom.htm. Retrieved 2007-07-18.
^ "Hereditary Hemochromatosis: Perspectives of Public Health, Medical Genetics, and Primary Care". CDC Office of Public Health Genomics. http://www.cdc.gov/genomics/training/perspectives/other/hfe.htm. Retrieved 2008-06-03.
^ Tuomainen TP, Salonen R, Nyyssönen K, Salonen JT (Mar 1997). "Cohort study of relation between donating blood and risk of myocardial infarction in 2682 men in eastern Finland". BMJ 314 (7083): 793–4. PMID 9080998. PMC: 2126176. http://bmj.bmjjournals.com/cgi/content/full/314/7083/793.
^ Did you know?, mayoclinic.org
^ "Guidelines for Implementation of Employee Blood Donation Leave". New York State Department of Labor. http://www.labor.state.ny.us/workerprotection/laborstandards/PDFs/Blood%20guidelinesFINAL.pdf. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "Incentives program for blood donors and organizers". American Red Cross Connecticut Blood Services Region. http://www.bloodct.org/announcements.php. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ Steele WR, Schreiber GB, Guiltinan A, et al. (Jan 2008). "The role of altruistic behavior, empathetic concern, and social responsibility motivation in blood donation behavior". Transfusion 48 (1): 43–54. doi:10.1111/j.1537-2995.2007.01481.x. PMID 17894795.
[edit] Further reading
Wikimedia Commons has media related to: Blood donation
Blood Donation and Processing
Deferred Donors: Anemia & Blood Donation
British guidelines for transfusion medicine
Harrison E (Nov 2007). "Blood cells for sale". Sci.
The limited storage time means that it is difficult to have a stockpile of blood to prepare for a disaster. The subject was discussed at length after the September 11th attacks in the United States, and the consensus was that collecting during a disaster was impractical and that efforts should be focused on maintaining an adequate supply at all times.[78] Blood centers in the U.S. often have difficulty maintaining even a three day supply for routine transfusion demands.[79]
The World Health Organization recognizes World Blood Donor Day on 14th June each year to promote blood donation. This is the birthday of Karl Landsteiner, the scientist who discovered the ABO blood group system.[80] As of 2008, the WHO estimated that more than 81 million units of blood were being collected annually.[81]
[edit] Benefits and incentives
The World Health Organization set a goal in 1997 for all blood donations to come from unpaid volunteer donors,[13] but as of 2006, only 49 of 124 countries surveyed had established this as a standard. Plasmapheresis donors in the United States are still paid for donations.[82] A few countries rely on paid donors to maintain an adequate supply.[83] Some countries, such as Tanzania, have made great strides in moving towards this standard, with 20 percent of donors in 2005 being unpaid volunteers and 80 percent in 2007,[6] but 68 of 124 countries surveyed by WHO had made little or no progress. In some countries, for example Brazil,[84] it is against the law to receive any compensation, monetary or otherwise, for the donation of blood or other human tissues.
In patients prone to iron overload, blood donation prevents the accumulation of toxic quantities.[85] Blood banks in the United States must label the blood if it is from a therapeutic donor, so most do not accept donations from donors with any blood disease.[86] Others, such as the Australian Red Cross Blood Service, accept blood from donors with hemochromatosis. It is a genetic disorder that does not affect the safety of the blood.[87] Donating blood may reduce the risk of heart disease for men,[88] but the link has not been firmly established. Also, donating one pint of blood causes the donor to burn approximately 650 calories.[89]
Other incentives are sometimes added by employers, usually time off for the purposes of donating.[90] Blood centers will also sometimes add incentives such as assurances that donors would have priority during shortages, free tshirts or other small trinkets (e.g., first aid kits, windshield scrapers, pens, etc.), or other programs such as prize drawings for donors and rewards for organizers of successful drives.[91] Most allogeneic blood donors donate as an act of charity and do not expect to receive any direct benefit from the donation.[92]
[edit] See also
List of blood donation agencies
Blood transfusion
Plateletpheresis
Bloodletting
MSM blood donor controversy
Blood substitutes
[edit] References
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^ "Directed Donation". Mayo Clinic. http://www.mayoclinic.org/donateblood/directed.html. Retrieved 2008-06-25.
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^ a b T. Brown "Strengthening Blood Systems In Africa: Progress Under PEPFAR and Remaining Challenges" AABB News. April, 1998:page 30
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^ "Donating - Frequently Asked Questions". Blood Bank of Alaska. http://www.bloodbankofalaska.org/donating/faq.html. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
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^ Bhattacharya P, Chandra PK, Datta S, et al. (Jul 2007). "Significant increase in HBV, HCV, HIV and syphilis infections among blood donors in West Bengal, Eastern India 2004-2005: exploratory screening reveals high frequency of occult HBV infection". World J. Gastroenterol. 13 (27): 3730–3. PMID 17659734. http://www.wjgnet.com/1007-9327/13/3730.asp.
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^ "Advisory Committe on MSBTO, 28 June 2005". http://www.advisorybodies.doh.gov.uk/acmsbtt/msbtsum280605.pdf. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "Precautionary West Nile virus blood sample testing". Héma-Québec, Canada. http://www.hema-quebec.qc.ca/anglais/centredepresse/coms2005/20050808.htm. Retrieved 2006-12-17.
^ a b c d "Circular of Information for use of Blood and Blood Products" (pdf). AABB, ARC, America's Blood Centers. http://www.aabb.org/Documents/About_Blood/Circulars_of_Information/coi0702.pdf.
^ "Red blood cell transfusions in newborn infants: Revised guidelines". Canadian Paediatric Society (CPS). http://www.cps.ca/english/statements/fn/fn02-02.htm#What%20type%20of%20RBCs%20should%20be%20used. Retrieved 2007-02-02.
^ Sagi E, Eyal F, Armon Y, Arad I, Robinson M (Nov 1981). "Exchange transfusion in newborns via a peripheral artery and vein". Eur. J. Pediatr. 137 (3): 283–4. doi:10.1007/BF00443258. PMID 7318840. http://www.springerlink.com/content/u18xn2491012nr8x/.
^ "Blood on the Hoof". Public Broadcasting Service. http://www.pbs.org/wnet/redgold/basics/bloodonhoof.html. Retrieved 2008-06-25.
^ "ISBT Quarterly Newsletter, June 2006, "A History of Fresh Blood", page 15" (pdf). International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT/SITS). http://www.isbt-web.org/files/tt/TT63.pdf. Retrieved 2008-07-31.
^ a b Lee CK, Ho PL, Chan NK, Mak A, Hong J, Lin CK (Oct 2002). "Impact of donor arm skin disinfection on the bacterial contamination rate of platelet concentrates". Vox Sang. 83 (3): 204–8. doi:10.1046/j.1423-0410.2002.00219.x. PMID 12366760. http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/doi/abs/10.1046/j.1423-0410.2002.00219.x.
^ M. L. Turgeon (2004). Clinical Hematology: Theory and Procedures (fourth ed.). Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. pp. 30. ISBN 0781750075. http://books.google.com/books?id=v2iyQBKx00kC&pg=PA30&lpg=PA30&dq=phlebotomy+complications&source=web&ots=GSRbgp8ydH&sig=T4APht_sZdr-zDtw0BfNu6vD-zU&hl=en&sa=X&oi=book_result&resnum=6&ct=result#PPA30,M1. Retrieved 2008-06-21.
^ One major manufacturer of collection sets uses a 16 gauge (1.651 mm) size "Blood banking laboratory supplies". Genesis BPS. http://www.genesisbps.com/PDF/blood_bags_terumo.pdf. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "What is Hemolysis?". Becton-Dickinson. http://www.bd.com/vacutainer/pdfs/techtalk/TechTalk_Jan2004_VS7167.pdf. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ Akerblom O, Kreuger A (1975). "Studies on citrate-phosphate-dextrose (CPD) blood supplemented with adenine". Vox Sang. 29 (2): 90–100. doi:10.1111/j.1423-0410.1975.tb00484.x. PMID 238338.
^ "Plasma Equipment and Packaging, and Transfusion Equipment". Office of Medical History (OTSG). http://history.amedd.army.mil/booksdocs/wwii/blood/chapter7.htm. Retrieved 2008-06-19.
^ "Medicines derived from human plasma". Sanquin Blood Supply Foundation. http://www.sanquin.nl/Sanquin-eng/sqn_From_blood_to_medicine.nsf/All/Plasma-Fractionation---Medicines-Derived-From-Plasma.html. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "Indications for Platelet Transfusion Therapy". Southeastern Community Blood Center. http://www.scbcinfo.org/publications/bulletin_v2_n2.htm. Retrieved 2008-06-10.
^ ""Double Up to Save Lives"". United Blood Services. http://www.unitedbloodservices.org/automation.html. Retrieved 2007-02-23.
^ ""Double the Difference"". American Red Cross (Greater Chesapeake and Potomac). http://www.my-redcross.org/index.cfm/p/Double-Red-Cell. Retrieved 2007-02-23.
^ Eder AF, Hillyer CD, Dy BA, Notari EP, Benjamin RJ (May 2008). "Adverse reactions to allogeneic whole blood donation by 16- and 17-year-olds". JAMA 299 (19): 2279–86. doi:10.1001/jama.299.19.2279. PMID 18492969.
^ "Report on the promotion by Member States of voluntary unpaid blood donation". Commission of the European Communities. http://siba2.unile.it/ese/issues/288/660/RelazDonazSanguigne_p6.pdf. Retrieved 2008-06-26.
^ "Donating Apheresis and Plasma". Community Blood Center. http://www.cbccts.org/donating/automated.htm. Retrieved 2008-06-11.
^ Pottgiesser T, Specker W, Umhau M, Dickhuth HH, Roecker K, Schumacher YO (Jul 2008). "Recovery of hemoglobin mass after blood donation". Transfusion 48 (7): 1390–7. doi:10.1111/j.1537-2995.2008.01719.x. PMID 18466177.
^ "Blood Products Advisory Committee, 12 December 2003". http://www.fda.gov/ohrms/dockets/ac/03/transcripts/4014T2.htm. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "Blood Donation". Hong Kong Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service. http://www5.ha.org.hk/rcbts/e_donation.html. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "Before and after giving blood". Australian Red Cross Blood Service. http://www.donateblood.com.au/page.aspx?IDDataTreeMenu=48&parent=31. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "Donating Whole Blood". Lane Memorial Blood Bank. http://www.lmbb.org/whole_blood.html. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ "Who can't give blood". National Blood Service for England and Wales. https://secure.blood.co.uk/c11_cant.asp. Retrieved 2009-02-026.
^ A.F. Eder, C.D. Hillyer, B.A. Dy, E.P. Notari, R.J. Benjamin (May 2008). "Adverse reactions to allogeneic whole blood donation by 16- and 17-year-olds". JAMA 299 (19): 2279–86. doi:10.1001/jama.299.19.2279. PMID 18492969. http://jama.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/full/299/19/2279.
^ Yuan S, Gornbein J, Smeltzer B, Ziman AF, Lu Q, Goldfinger D (Jun 2008). "Risk factors for acute, moderate to severe donor reactions associated with multicomponent apheresis collections". Transfusion 48 (6): 1213–9. doi:10.1111/j.1537-2995.2008.01674.x. PMID 18346014.
^ "Adverse Effect of Blood Donation, Siriraj Experience". American Red Cross. http://www.redcross.or.th/extra/blood_seminar_50/files/211_1525-1536.pdf. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ B. Newman, S. Graves (2001). "A study of 178 consecutive vasovagal syncopal reactions from the perspective of safety". Transfusion 41 (12): 1475–9. doi:10.1046/j.1537-2995.2001.41121475.x. PMID 11778059.
^ "Fatalities Reported to FDA". US Food and Drug Administration. http://www.fda.gov/Cber/blood/fatal0506.htm#g. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
^ Wiltbank TB, Giordano GF, Kamel H, Tomasulo P, Custer B (May 2008). "Faint and prefaint reactions in whole-blood donors: an analysis of predonation measurements and their predictive value". Transfusion 48: 1799. doi:10.1111/j.1537-2995.2008.01745.x. PMID 18482188.
^ Ranasinghe E, Harrison JF (Jun 2000). "Bruising following blood donation, its management and the response and subsequent return rates of affected donors". Transfus Med 10 (2): 113–6. doi:10.1046/j.1365-3148.2000.00240.x. PMID 10849380. http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/openurl?genre=article&sid=nlm:pubmed&issn=0958-7578&date=2000&volume=10&issue=2&spage=113.
^ Working Group on Complications Related to Blood Donation JF (2008). "[http://www.isbt-web.org/members_only/files/society/StandardSurveillanceDOCO.pdf Standard for Surveillance of Complications Related to Blood D Donation]". European Haemovigilance Network: 11. http://www.isbt-web.org/members_only/files/society/StandardSurveillanceDOCO.pdf.
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[edit] Further reading
Wikimedia Commons has media related to: Blood donation
Blood Donation and Processing
Deferred Donors: Anemia & Blood Donation
British guidelines for transfusion medicine
Harrison E (Nov 2007). "Blood cells for sale". Sci.
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