National Blood Day

Young man donating blood, wearing a volunteer t-shirt, bright and welcoming blood donation center.. — National blood day illustration

Welcome to WhatNationalDayIsIt.com, where we dive deep into the fascinating history of national days! Today, we're shining the spotlight on National Blood Day, a day filled with heart-pumping activities and a whole lot of generosity.

When is Blood Day?

It's national blood day on the 8th June.

The Internet History of National Blood Day

On June 8, 2015, a remarkable event took place online. People from all walks of life came together, united by their shared commitment to saving lives through blood donation. Social media platforms were ablaze with posts and hashtags, spreading the word far and wide.

Throughout the day, individuals shared heartwarming stories of receiving blood transfusions that gave them a second chance at life. Others celebrated the selflessness of blood donors, expressing their profound gratitude for those who give the gift of life.

What started as a simple online conversation quickly gained momentum, with countless organizations and individuals taking part in the dialogue. The day was filled with resources and information about blood donation, raising awareness and inspiring action from people worldwide.

Since that memorable day, National Blood Day has been observed annually as a time to remember the importance of blood donation and to encourage others to roll up their sleeves and donate.

History behind the term 'Blood'

900 CE

Origins of the term 'blood'

The term 'blood' originated from the Old English word 'blod', which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word 'blodam' meaning 'blood'. This term has existed for over a thousand years and has been used to refer to the red fluid that circulates in the veins and arteries of humans and animals.

1660

Discovery of the circulatory system

In 1660, the English physician William Harvey published his groundbreaking work 'De Motu Cordis' (On the Motion of the Heart and Blood). In this book, he described the circulatory system and how blood circulates through the body. It was through Harvey's research and observations that the true understanding of blood and its role in the body began to emerge.

1818

Identification of blood types

In 1818, the Austrian physician Karl Landsteiner made a significant discovery related to blood. He identified the existence of different blood types, which he categorized into what is now known as the ABO blood group system. Landsteiner's work provided crucial insights into the compatibility of blood transfusions and laid the foundation for advancements in blood transfusion medicine.

1901

Nobel Prize for blood typing

In 1901, Karl Landsteiner was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for his discovery of blood types and the ABO blood group system. His groundbreaking research revolutionized the field of blood transfusion and led to improved techniques for safe and successful blood transfusions, saving countless lives.

1937

Introduction of blood banking

The year 1937 marked a significant milestone in the history of blood. The first blood bank was established in Chicago, Illinois, by Dr. Bernard Fantus. This innovation allowed for the collection, storage, and distribution of blood for transfusions on a larger scale. Blood banking revolutionized healthcare and played a vital role in emergency medicine and surgical procedures.

1983

HIV and blood safety

In 1983, the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) was identified as the cause of AIDS. This discovery raised concerns about blood safety and the transmission of HIV through blood transfusions. The introduction of stringent screening measures, including testing for HIV and other infectious diseases, significantly improved the safety of the blood supply, ensuring that transfused blood is as safe as possible.

2021

Advancements in blood research

Today, ongoing research into the properties and functions of blood continues to expand our understanding of its role in health and disease. Scientists explore areas such as blood disorders, immune system interactions, regenerative medicine, and the potential for personalized treatments. Our knowledge of blood has come a long way, and advancements in this field have had a profound impact on medicine and the well-being of individuals around the world.

Did you know?

Did you know that donating blood not only helps save lives but also offers health benefits to the donor? It stimulates the production of new blood cells, improves cardiovascular health, and reduces the risk of certain cancers. Talk about a win-win!