swine flu guide

SWINE FLU FACTFILE

What are the symptoms?

Swine flu symptoms are similar to the symptoms of regular flu and include fever of over 100.4°F, fatigue, lack of appetite, and cold. Some people with swine flu have also reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. Nearly everyone with flu has at least two of these symptoms.

So, how do you know if you have flu or just cold?
There is one clue: when you have the flu, you feel flu symptoms sooner than you would cold symptoms, and they come on with much greater intensity. With the flu, you may feel very weak and fatigued for up to 2 or 3 weeks. You'll have muscle aches and periods of chills and sweats as fever comes and goes. You may also have a stuffy or runny nose, headache, and sore throat.

Can I compare flu symptoms with cold symptoms?
Yes. The following chart can help you compare flu symptoms with cold symptoms. Use it to lean the differences and similarities between flu and cold symptoms. Then, if you get flu symptoms, call your doctor and ask about an antiviral drug.

Symptoms	Cold	Flu
Fever	Rare	Characteristic, high 100-102 degrees F); lasts 3-4 days
Headache	Rare	Prominent
General aches, pains	Slight	Usual; often severe
Fatigue, Weakness	Quite mild	Can last up to 2-3 weeks
Extreme Exhaustion	Never	Early and prominent
Stuffy Nose	Common	Sometimes
Chest Discomfort,Cough	Mild to moderate; hacking cough	Common; can become severe

You cannot confirm if you have swine flu just based on your symptoms. Like seasonal flu, pandemic swine flu can cause neurologic symptoms in children. These events are rare, but, as cases associated with seasonal flu have shown, they can be very severe and often fatal.

Doctors may offer a rapid flu test, but what you need to understand is a negative result doesn't necessarily mean you don't have the flu. Only lab tests can definitively show whether you've got swine flu. State health departments can do these tests.

Source: WebMD

What should you do immediately?

Those of you who have travelled from the affected countries in the past ten days and show symptoms swine flu like fever, cough, sore throat and difficulty in breathing should immediately contact the telephone number given below or visit the nearby Government Hospital.

Important contact numbers:
Outbreak Monitoring Cell (Control Room, NICD): 011-23921401

Websites: www.mohfw.nic.in and www.nicd.nic.in
You can also contact a toll free number 2392 1401 at the National Institute of Communicable Disease

Contact number for each cities:
Bangalore
BIAL Swine Flu Center - 91-80-22001490

SDS TUBERCULOSIS & RAJIV GANDHI INSTITUTE OF CHEST DISEASES(Govt. of Karnataka), Hosur Road, Bangalore - 560029
Helpline No: 91-80-26631923

Chennai
Communicable Disease Hospital, 87, T.H. Road, Tondiarpet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Hyderabad
Govt. General and Chest Diseases Hospital, Erragadda , Hyderabad
Hospital Helpline Number - 040-23814939

Kolkata
Beliaghata Infectious Diseases Hospital, 57, Beliaghata Main Road, Kolkata

Mumbai
Kasturba Hospital, Arthur Road, Sane Guruji Marg, Mumbai 400011
Ph: 022- 23083901 / 23092458 / 23000889

New Delhi
Yellow Fever Quarantine Centre, Near AAI Residential Colony, New Delhi
Ph: 91-11-25652129

Influenza Ward, Ward no 5, Second Floor, New Building, RML Hospital, Delhi-1
RML- 91-11-24525211,23404328,23365525- Ext 4328

Source: Swine Flu India website

What is the treatment?

Antiviral drugs can be used to treat swine flu or to prevent infection with swine flu viruses. The anti-viral medicines oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza) are being used to treat people with swine flu. Antiviral drugs work by preventing the flu virus from reproducing. To be effective you need to take them within 48 hours of the symptoms beginning. These flu drugs can decrease the duration of the flu by 1 to 2 days if used within this early time period. These antivirals are usually given for a period of about 5-7 days. It's unclear whether these drugs can prevent complications of the flu. Tamiflu is approved for prevention and treatment in people 1 year old and older. Relenza is approved for treatment of people 7 years old and older and for prevention in people 5 years old and older. These medications must be prescribed by a health care professional.

Side effects: Side effects of antiviral drugs may include nervousness, poor concentration, nausea, and vomiting. Relenza is not recommended for people with a history of breathing problems, such as asthma, because it may cause a worsening of breathing problems. Discuss side effects with your doctor.

Self medication: Antibiotics are a no-no. Chances are that antibiotics will not help your flu symptoms. That's because flu, colds, and most sore throats and bronchitis are caused by viruses. In addition, taking antibiotics when you have a virus may do more harm than good. Taking antibiotics when they are not needed increases your risk of getting an infection later that resists antibiotic treatment. Antibiotics only cure certain infections due to bacteria -- and if taken carelessly, you may get more serious health problems than you bargained for.

Is there a vaccine to treat swine flu virus? No, there isn’t a vaccine yet. But vaccines are being made in large quantities. Clinical tests will begin in August 2009. Depending on how long federal officials wait for the results of these tests, tens of millions of doses of swine flu vaccine could be ready as soon as September 2009, with more vaccine becoming available each month thereafter. The first doses of vaccine likely will go to pregnant women and young children ages 6 months to 4 years, with older school kids to follow.

Source: Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Health Service, UK website, WebMD

Who is at risk?

Those who are more at risk from becoming seriously ill with swine flu are people with:

• chronic (long-term) lung disease, including people who have had drug treatment for their asthma within the past three years,
• chronic heart disease,
• chronic kidney disease,
• chronic liver disease,
• chronic neurological disease (neurological disorders include motor neurone disease, Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis),
• suppressed immune systems (whether caused by disease or treatment),
• diabetes,
• pregnant women,
• people aged 65 or older, and
• young children under five.

Source: National Health Service, UK website

How does it spread?

The new swine flu virus is highly contagious, that is it spreads from person to person. The virus is spread through the droplets that come out of the nose or mouth when someone coughs or sneezes. If someone coughs or sneezes and they do not cover it, those droplets can spread about one metre (3ft). If you are very nearby you might breathe them in.

Or, if someone coughs or sneezes into their hand, those droplets and the virus within them are easily transferred to surfaces that the person touches, such as door handles, hand rails, telephones and keyboards. If you touch these surfaces and touch your face, the virus can enter your system, and you can become infected.

Source: National Health Service, UK website

Can it be prevented?

Influenza antiviral drugs also can be used to prevent influenza when they are given to a person who is not ill, but who has been or may be near a person with swine influenza. When used to prevent the flu, antiviral drugs are about 70% to 90% effective. When used for prevention, the number of days that they should be used will vary depending on a person’s particular situation.

Follow this general procedure to reduce the risk of catching or spreading the virus, you should:

• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, using a tissue
• Throw the tissue away quickly and carefully
• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water
• Clean hard surfaces (like door handles and remote controls) frequently with a normal cleaning product
• Keep away from others as much as possible. This is to keep from making others sick. Do not go to work or school while ill
• Stay home for at least 24 hours after fever is gone, except to seek medical care or for other necessities. (Fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)
• Drink clear fluids (such as water, broth, sports drinks, electrolyte beverages for infants) to keep from being dehydrated
• Wear a facemask – if available and tolerable – when sharing common spaces with other household members to help prevent spreading the virus to others.

Source: CDC, National Health Service, UK website

Will it help to wear a mask?

Information on the effectiveness of facemasks and respirators for decreasing the risk of influenza infection in community settings is extremely limited. So, it is difficult to assess their potential effectiveness in decreasing the risk of Swine Flu virus transmission in these settings. However, a well-fitted, FDA-approved mask together with other preventive measures MAY reduce the risk of contracting the flu. Those who are sick or caring for someone who is ill should consider using a mask or respirator if leaving the house becomes necessary.

Source: CDC

What precautions should one take at home?

Two things - soap and water can reduce the chance of infection by 30 per cent. All you need to do is keep washing your hand with soap and water frequently. Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand cleaner when soap and water are not available. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth

Eat healthy: Proteins are essential to help your body maintain and build strength. Lean meat, poultry, fish, legumes, dairy, eggs, and nuts and seeds are good sources of protein.

The Food and Drug Administration recommends that adults eat 50 grams of protein per day. Pregnant and nursing women need more. By eating foods high in protein, we also get the benefit of other healing nutrients such as vitamins B6 and B12, both of which contribute to a healthy immune system.

Vitamin B6 is widely available in foods, including protein foods such as turkey and beans as well as potatoes, spinach, and enriched cereal grains. Proteins such as meats, milk, and fish also contain vitamin B12, a powerful immune booster.

Minerals such as selenium and zinc work to keep the immune system strong. These minerals are found in protein rich foods such as beans, nuts, meat, and poultry.

Exercise: Regular exercise may help prevent the flu. According to recent findings, when moderate exercise is repeated on a near daily basis, there is a cumulative immune-enhancing effect. That is, your strong immune system can fight flu better. When you exercise, your white blood cells -- the blood cells that fight infections in the body -- travel through your body more quickly, fighting bacteria and viruses (such as flu) more efficiently. To maintain good health, experts recommend at least 30 minutes of aerobic activity such as walking, swimming, biking, or running each day.

Source: Flu India website, CDC, WebMD

What precautions should one take at schools?

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• People who are sick with an influenza-like illness should stay home and keep away from others as much as possible, including avoiding travel, for at least 24 hours after fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Fever should be gone without the use of fever-reducing medicine). Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing
• Wash your hands often
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth

Source: CDC

Is it safe to travel?

Avoid travelling unnecessarily. However, if you must travel, check how the country you're going to handles swine flu. Although, the WHO doesn't recommend travel restrictions, many countries have set up their own H1N1 policies, and some travellers have been screened or quarantined in other countries because of swine flu concerns.

Source: WebMD.com

videos:

How to use SUPPORT2FRIENDS

Simplicity is a very important aspect of design and we have tried to be as simple as possible.

If in case you are unable to figure out how to use the site, below are the directions.

Posting any request for BLOOD/ NEED HELP just takes 2 easy steps!

1. Click on the ‘WAT YOU NEED LABLE’ tab and enter the information about the type of assistance you require

2. Submit your post by clicking ‘Submit’ button

After an individual(s) expresses his/her interest in the request, the requester will receive an email with their contact information, which will enable them to coordinate with the individual(s) further.

Responding to any request for BLOOD/HELP TO FRIENDS just takes 2 easy steps!

1. Click on the ‘WAT YOU INTERSTING LABLE’ tab and select the category of your choice.

3. Choose the request of your choice, click-‘Details’ and respond.

Let us know if this was useful.

1 donation = 3 lives

Most donated blood is separated into its components—plasma, red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets—before being stored. This allows the blood of a single donor to be used for several patients who have different needs. Blood is separated by means of centrifugation, a process in which the blood is rapidly spun so that the heavier blood cells and platelets separate out from the lighter plasma.

Plasma, the liquid part of blood, can be dried into a powder or frozen. Fresh frozen plasma and freeze-dried preparations containing clotting factors are used to treat patients with hemophilia. Hemophilia is an inherited disorder in which certain clotting factors are missing in the blood, resulting in excessive bleeding. Concentrated red blood cells are used to transfuse patients with anemia, a condition in which the blood contains an insufficient number of red blood cells. White blood cells and platelets are used for transfusions in patients who have a deficiency of these components in their blood.

Benifits and Facts about Blood Donation

When we need blood for ourself or for a relative, we think that its our right to receive blood. We are ready to pay money for a few bottles of blood but unfortunately it is not something that can be manufactured in a factory as needed. If you expect to receive blood during emmergency or as a part of treatment, then you should certainly do the noble act of blood donation regularly to save life of others. If even half of the people who are eligible to donate blood do it once or twice a year, then we will not have blood shortages. It takes just half hour to donate blood, then why not take that short time from our busy lives and participate in a nearby blood donation program.
.
June 14th is the World Blood Donor Day, blood donation might sound like a scary thing to many, but frankly it is very easy task. People often compare that what if they lost that same amount of blood in an injury or accident, frankly both are incomparable situations, because during an accident there are other bodily injuries which cause most pain and not just the loss of blood. The demand for blood is increasing as surgeries that require more transfusions become common. Often hospitals around the world have to postpone surgeries because of a lack of available blood.
.
There are several benefits of blood donation to the donor himself:

1. The Kansas University Medical Center found that men who participate in blood donation experience a 30 percent fewer incidents of heart disease and stroke compared to those people who did not.
.
2. In 1998 American Journal of Epidemiology published that blood donation can reduce the overall iron levels in blood, which may protect against heart attack. But this applies to people who had high iron in their blood to begin with.
.
3. Blood donation forces your body to replace the lost blood with fresh NEW cells.
.
4. Men do not have menstrual period, therefore they store iron in their bodies, often its more than they need.
.
5. A healthy body replaces blood within 48 hours and creates NEW red blood cells within a week.
.
6. Most blood donation sites check your heart rate, hemoglobin, blood pressure etc.. for FREE. If you get those checked in a regular doctor's clinic, it will cost you money.
.
7. You hardly lose blood, average adult has 10 pints of total blood, we donate just 1 pint. Giving blood will not decrease your strength.
.
8. Most employers usually give time off when you want to donate blood.
.
Types of Blood Groups:

There are four blood groups: Type A, Type B, Type AB, and Type O. Additionally there are positive and negative types of each blood group. Type O negative is are "universal donors", which means all blood types can usually receive Type O negative blood donation. Blood centers often run short of types O and B red blood cells.Blood donation Pre-Screening:The nurse (or medical expert) taking your blood will ask you some questions which will determine whether or not you are eligible to donate blood and then perform some basic health checks. Questions include any medication you are taking, your current and health in recent days/months, your age, height, weight, recent travel, sex and tattooing history. Blood donor requirements change very frequently. Anyone who is in good health, is at least 17 years old, and weighs at least 110 pounds (about 50 kgs) may donate blood every once in 2-3 months.Snacks and drinks are provided to the blood donors to help restore blood sugar. It is advisable to sit for a few minutes, then eat well and drink enough water for the next few days. You cannot get AIDS or any other blood disease by donating blood if a new needle before you donate blood. Blood makes up about 7 percent of your body's weight.
.
Products derived from whole blood:

Red blood cells >> carry oxygen
-Platelet concentrates >> body's clotting system to help control bleeding.
- Plasma (yellow liquid portion) an helps to restores fluid volume.
- Cryoprecipitate and Fractionation.It is rare to have any adverse effects from blood donation.

Blood Cells and its History

Where are blood cells made?

Blood cells are made in the bone marrow. The bone marrow is the soft, spongy material in the center of the bones that produces about 95 percent of the body's blood cells.
There are other organs and systems in our bodies that help regulate blood cells. The lymph nodes, spleen, and liver help regulate the production, destruction, and differentiation (developing a specific function) of cells. The production and development of new cells is a process called hematopoiesis.
Blood cells formed in the bone marrow start out as a stem cell. A "stem cell" (or hematopoietic cell) is the initial phase of all blood cells. As the stem cell matures, several distinct cells evolve such as the red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Immature blood cells are also called blasts. Some blasts stay in the marrow to mature and others travel to other parts of the body to develop into mature, functioning blood cells.

.

What are the functions of blood cells?

The primary function of red blood cells, or erythrocytes, is to carry oxygen and carbon dioxide. Hemoglobin (Hgb) is an important protein in the red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to all parts of our body.
The primary function of white blood cells, or leukocytes, is to fight infection. There are several types of white blood cells and each has its own role in fighting bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections.

Types of white blood cells that are most important for helping protect the body from infection and foreign cells include the following:
neutrophils
eosinophils
lymphocytes
monocytes
granulocytes

.

White blood cells:

help heal wounds not only by fighting infection, but also by ingesting matter such as dead cells, tissue debris, and old red blood cells.
are our protection from foreign bodies that enter the blood stream, such as allergens.
are involved in the protection against mutated cells, such as cancer.
The primary function of platelets, or thrombocytes, is blood clotting. Platelets are much smaller in size than the other blood cells. They group together to form clumps, or a plug, in the hole of a vessel to stop bleeding.

.

What is a complete blood cell count (CBC)?

A complete blood cell count is a measurement of size, number, and maturity of the different blood cells in a specific volume of blood. A complete blood cell count can be used to determine many abnormalities with either the production or destruction of blood cells. Variations from the normal number, size, or maturity of the blood cells can be used to indicate an infection or disease process. Often with an infection, the number of white blood cells will be elevated. Many forms of cancer can affect the bone marrow production of blood cells. An increase in the immature white blood cells in a complete blood cell count can be associated with leukemia. Anemia and sickle cell disease will have abnormally low hemoglobin.

Blood Facts

*There are four main blood types: A, B, AB and O.

*The gift of blood is the gift of life. There is no substitute for human blood.

*Every year our nation requires about 4 Crore units of blood, out of which only meager 40 Lakh units of blood are available.

*One blood donation can save as many as three lives. One unit of blood can be separated into several components, including red blood cells,plasma and platelets. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the body's organs and tissue. Plasma is a pale yellow mixture of water, salts and proteins, including solvable clotting factors; plasma is 90 percent water and constitutes 55 percent of blood volume. Platelets are small blood cells that initiate blood clotting, controlling bleeding.

*Every three seconds, someone needs blood. Blood fights against infection and helps heal wounds, keeping you healthy. Anemic patients need blood transfusions to increase their iron levels. Cancer, transplant and trauma patients and patients undergoing open-heart surgery require platelet transfusions to survive. People who have been in car accidents and suffered massive blood loss can need transfusions of 50 units or more of red blood cells.

*The average bone marrow transplant requires 120 units of platelets and about 20 units of red blood cells. Severe burn victims can need 20 units of platelets during their treatment. Children being treated for cancer, premature infants, and children having heart surgery need blood and platelets from donors of all types.

*Apheresis (ay-fur-ee-sis) is a special kind of blood donation that allows a donor to give specific blood components, such as platelets. Platelets must be used within five days of collection, hence blood donations are especially needed around 3-day weekends. Red blood cells must be used within 42 days. Plasma can be frozen and used for up to a year.

*Blood makes up about 7 percent of your body's weight, and the average adult has 10 pints of blood in his or her body. Since a pint is pound, you lose a pound every time you donate blood.

WHAT TYPE ARE YOU ???

FREQUENCY OF BLOOD TYPES

O+ 1 person in 3 O- 1 person in 15
A+ 1 person in 3 A- 1 person in 16
B+ 1 person in 12 B- 1 person in 67
AB+ 1 person in 29 AB- 1 person in 167





*Those belonging to the O- blood group are called universal blood donors. The red blood cells of a universal blood donor may be transfused to anyone regardless of their blood type.

*The plasma of those belonging to the AB blood group may be transfused to anyone regardless of blood type.

EXAMPLES OF BLOOD USE

1. Automobile Accident 50 units of blood

2. Heart Surgery 6 units of blood / 6 units of platelets

3. Organ Transplant 40 units of blood / 30 units of platelets

4. 20 bags of cryoprecipitate 25 units of fresh frozen plasma

5. Bone Marrow Transplant 120 units of platelets/ 20 units of blood

6. Burn Victims 20 units of platelets

Blood Types

A blood type (also called a blood group) is a classification of blood based on the presence or absence of inherited antigenic substances on the surface of red blood cells (RBCs). These antigens may be proteins, carbohydrates, glycoproteins, or glycolipids, depending on the blood group system, and some of these antigens are also present on the surface of other types of cells of various tissues. Several of these red blood cell surface antigens, that stem from one allele (or very closely linked genes), collectively form a blood group system

Blood types are inherited and represent contributions from both parents. A total of 30 human blood group systems are now recognized by the International Society of Blood Transfusion

Many pregnant women carry a fetus with a different blood type from their own, and the mother can form antibodies against fetal RBCs. Sometimes these maternal antibodies are IgG, a small immunoglobulin, which can cross the placenta and cause hemolysis of fetal RBCs, which in turn can lead to hemolytic disease of the newborn, an illness of low fetal blood counts which ranges from mild to severe.

Serology

If an individual is exposed to a blood group antigen that is not recognized as self, the immune system will produce antibodies that can specifically bind to that particular blood group antigen, and an immunological memory against that antigen is formed. The individual will have become sensitized to that blood group antigen. These antibodies can bind to antigens on the surface of transfused red blood cells (or other tissue cells), often leading to destruction of the cells by recruitment of other components of the immune system. When IgM antibodies bind to the transfused cells, the transfused cells can clump. It is vital that compatible blood is selected for transfusions and that compatible tissue is selected for organ transplantation. Transfusion reactions involving minor antigens or weak antibodies may lead to minor problems. However, more serious incompatibilities can lead to a more vigorous immune response with massive RBC destruction, low blood pressure, and even death.

ABO and Rh blood grouping

Anti-A and Anti-B, the common IgM antibodies to the RBC surface antigens of the ABO blood group system, are sometimes described as being "naturally occurring"; however, this is a misnomer, because these antibodies are formed in infancy by sensitisation in the same way as other antibodies. The theory that explains how these antibodies are developed states that antigens similar to the A and B antigens occur in nature, including in food, plants, and bacteria. After birth an infant gut becomes colonized with normal flora that express these A-like and B-like antigens, causing the immune system to make antibodies to those antigens that the red cells do not possess. So, people who are blood type A will have Anti-B, blood type B will have Anti-A, blood type O will have both Anti-A and Anti-B, and blood type AB will have neither. Because of these so called "naturally occurring" and expected antibodies, it is important to correctly determine a patient's blood type prior to transfusion of any blood component. These naturally occurring antibodies are of the IgM class, which have the capability of agglutinating (clumping) and damaging red cells within the blood vessels, possibly leading to death. It is not necessary to determine any other blood groups because almost all other red-cell antibodies can develop only through active immunization, which can occur only through either previous blood transfusion or pregnancy. A test called the Antibody Screen is always performed on patients who may require red-blood-cell transfusion, and this test will detect most clinically significant red-cell antibodies.

The RhD antigen is also important in determining a person's blood type. The terms "positive" or "negative" refer to either the presence or absence of the RhD antigen irrespective of the presence or absence of the other antigens of the Rhesus system. Anti-RhD is not usually a naturally occurring antibody as the Anti-A and Anti-B antibodies are. Cross-matching for the RhD antigen is extremely important, because the RhD antigen is immunogenic, meaning that a person who is RhD negative is very likely to make Anti-RhD when exposed to the RhD antigen (perhaps through either transfusion or pregnancy). Once an individual is sensitised to RhD antigens, his or her blood will contain RhD IgG antibodies, which can bind to RhD positive RBCs and may cross the placenta.

Rhesus blood group system

The Rhesus system is the second most significant blood-group system in human-blood transfusion. The most significant Rhesus antigen is the RhD antigen because it is the most immunogenic of the five main rhesus antigens. It is common for RhD-negative individuals not to have any anti-RhD IgG or IgM antibodies, because anti-RhD antibodies are not usually produced by sensitization against environmental substances. However, RhD-negative individuals can produce IgG anti-RhD antibodies following a sensitizing event: possibly a fetomaternal transfusion of blood from a fetus in pregnancy or occasionally a blood transfusion with RhD positive RBCs. Rh disease can develop in these cases.

Bone Marrow Transplantation

What is a bone marrow transplantation?

Bone marrow transplantation (BMT) is a special therapy for patients with cancer or other diseases which affect the bone marrow. A bone marrow transplant involves taking cells that are normally found in the bone marrow (stem cells), filtering those cells, and giving them back either to the patient or to another person. The goal of BMT is to transfuse healthy bone marrow cells into a person after their own unhealthy bone marrow has been eliminated.

Bone marrow transplantation is not yet a standard treatment therapy, but has been used successfully to treat diseases such as leukemias, lymphomas, aplastic anemia, immune deficiency disorders, and some solid tumor cancers since 1968.

What is bone marrow?

Bone marrow is the soft, spongy tissue found inside bones. It is the medium for development and storage of about 95 percent of the body's blood cells.

The blood cells that produce other blood cells are called stem cells. The most primitive of the stem cells is called the pluripotent stem cell, which is different than other blood cells with regards to the following properties:

• renewal - it is able to reproduce another cell identical to itself.
• differentiation - it is able to generate one or more subsets of more mature cells.
  It is the stem cells that are needed in bone marrow transplantation.

Why is a bone marrow transplant needed?

The goal of a bone marrow transplant is to cure many diseases and types of cancer. When a person's bone marrow has been damaged or destroyed due to a disease or intense treatments of radiation or chemotherapy for cancer, a marrow transplant may be needed.

A bone marrow transplant can be used to:

• replace diseased, non-functioning bone marrow with healthy functioning bone marrow (for conditions such as leukemia, aplastic anemia, and sickle cell anemia).
  
  
• replace the bone marrow and restore its normal function after high doses of chemotherapy or radiation are given to treat a malignancy. This process is often called "rescue" (for diseases such as lymphoma, neuroblastoma, and breast cancer).
  
  
• replace bone marrow with genetically healthy functioning bone marrow to prevent further damage from a genetic disease process (such as Hurler's syndrome, and adrenoleukodystrophy).

The risks and benefits must be weighed in a thorough discussion with your physician and physicians that specialize in bone marrow transplants prior to procedure.

What are some diseases that may benefit from bone marrow transplantation?

The following diseases are the ones that most commonly benefit from bone marrow transplantation:

• leukemias
• severe aplastic anemia
• lymphomas
• multiple myeloma
• immune deficiency disorders
• solid-tumor cancers, such as breast or ovarian

However, patients experience diseases differently, and bone marrow transplantation may not be appropriate for everyone who suffers from these diseases.

What are the different types of bone marrow transplants?

There are different types of bone marrow transplants depending on who the donor is. The different types of bone marrow transplant include the following:

• autologous bone marrow transplant
• The donor is the patient him/herself. Stem cells are taken from the patient either by bone marrow harvest or apheresis (peripheral blood stem cells) and then given back to the patient after intensive treatment. Often the term "rescue" is used instead of "transplant."
  
  
• allogeneic bone marrow transplant
  The donor shares the same genetic type as the patient. Stem cells are taken either by bone marrow harvest or apheresis (peripheral blood stem cells) from a genetically-matched donor, usually a brother or sister. Other donors for allogeneic bone marrow transplants include the following:
  
  
  • a parent - a haploid-identical match is when the donor is a parent and the genetic match is at least half identical to the recipient.
    
    
  • an identical twin - a syngeneic transplant is an allogeneic transplant from an identical twin. Identical twins are considered a complete genetic match for a marrow transplant.
    
    
  • unrelated bone marrow transplants (UBMT or MUD for matched unrelated donor) - the genetically matched marrow or stem cells are from an unrelated donor. Unrelated donors are found through the national bone marrow registries.
    
    
• umbilical cord blood transplant
  Stem cells are taken from an umbilical cord immediately after delivery of an infant. These stem cells reproduce into mature, functioning blood cells quicker and more effectively than do stem cells taken from the bone marrow of another child or adult. The stem cells are tested, typed, counted, and frozen until they are ready to be transplanted.

How are a donor and recipient matched?

Matching involves typing human leukocyte antigen (HLA) tissue. The antigens on the surface of these special white blood cells determine the genetic make-up of a person's immune system. There are at least 100 HLA antigens, however, it is believed that there are a few major antigens that determine whether a donor and recipient match. The others are considered "minor" and their effect on a successful transplant is not as well defined.

Medical research is still investigating the role all antigens play in the process of a bone marrow transplant. The more antigens that match, the better the engraftment of donated marrow. Engraftment of the stem cells occurs when the donated cells make their way to the marrow and begin reproducing new blood cells.

The bone marrow transplant team:

The group of specialists involved in the care of patients going through transplant is often referred to as the "transplant team." Each individual works together to provide the best chance for a successful transplant. The team consists of the following:

• physicians - physicians who specialize in oncology, hematology, immunology, and bone marrow transplantation.
  
  
• bone marrow transplant nurse coordinator - a nurse who organizes all aspects of care provided before and after the transplant. The nurse coordinator will provide patient education, and coordinates the diagnostic testing and follow-up care.
  
  
• social workers - professionals who will help your family deal with many issues that may arise including lodging and transportation, finances, and legal issues.
  
  
• dietitians - professionals who will help you meet your nutritional needs before and after the transplant. They will work closely with you and your family.
  
  
• physical therapists - professionals who will help you become strong and independent with movement and endurance after the transplantation.
  
  
• pastoral care - chaplains who provide spiritual care and support.
  
  
• other team members - several other team members will evaluate you before transplantation and will provide follow-up care as needed. These include, but are not limited to, the following:
  
  
  • pharmacists
    
    
  • respiratory therapists
    
    
  • lab technicians
    
    
  • infectious disease specialists
    
    
  • dermatologists
    
    
  • gastroenterologists
    
    
  • psychologists

An extensive evaluation is completed by the bone marrow transplant team. The decision for you to undergo a bone marrow transplant will be based on many factors, including the following:

• your age, overall health, and medical history
• extent of the disease
• availability of a donor
• your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
• expectations for the course of the disease
• expectations for the course of the transplant
• your opinion or preference

Preparation for the recipient:

For a patient receiving the transplant, the following will occur in advance of the procedure:

• Prior to the transplant, an extensive evaluation is completed by the bone marrow transplant team. All other treatment options are discussed and evaluated for risk versus benefit.
  
  
• A complete medical history and physical examination are performed, including multiple tests to evaluate the patient's blood and organ functions (i.e., heart, kidney, liver, lungs).
  
  
• A patient will often come into the transplant center up to 10 days prior to transplant for hydration, evaluation, placement of the central venous line, and other preparations. A catheter, also called a central venous line, is surgically placed in a vein in the chest area. Blood products and medications will be administered through the catheter.
  
  
• A suitable (tissue typed and matched) donor must be available. Finding a matching donor can be a challenging and lengthy process. Voluntary marrow donors are registered in several national and international registries. A bone marrow search involves searching these registries for donors whose blood most closely resembles or matches the child needing the transplant.

Preparation for the donor:

• Donor sources available include: self, sibling, parent or relative, non-related person, or umbilical cord from a related or non-related person. There are national and international registries for non-related persons and cord blood. For family members, they may be typed because of the desire to help. These relatives may or may not elect to have their type registered for use with other recipients.
  
  
• If the potential donor is notified that they may be a match for a patient needing a transplant, they will undergo additional tests. Tests related to their health, exposure to viruses, and complete genetic analysis will be done to determine the extent of the match. The donor will be given instructions on how a bone marrow donation will be made.
  
  
• Once a match for a patient needing a bone marrow transplant is found, then stem cells will be collected either by a bone marrow harvest (collection of stem cells with a needle placed into the soft center of the bone marrow) or peripheral blood stem cell collection (stem cells are collected from the circulating cells in the blood). Cord blood has already been collected at the time of a birth and stored for later use.

How are the stem cells collected?

A bone marrow transplant is done by transferring stem cells from one person to another. Stem cells can either be collected from the circulating cells in the blood (the peripheral system) or from the bone marrow.

• peripheral blood stem cells (PBSCs)
  Peripheral blood stem cells (PBSCs) are collected by a apheresis, a process in which the donor is connected to a special cell separation machine via a needle inserted in the vein. Blood is taken from one vein and is circulated though the machine which removes the stem cells and returns the remaining blood and plasma back to the donor through another needle inserted into the opposite arm. Several sessions may be required to collect enough stem cells to ensure a chance of successful engraftment in the recipient.
  
  A medication may be given to the donor for about one week prior to apheresis that will stimulate the bone marrow to increase production of new stem cells. These new stem cells will be released from the marrow and into the circulating or peripheral blood system.
  
  
• bone marrow harvest
  Bone marrow harvesting involves collecting stem cells with a needle placed into the soft center of the bone, the marrow. Most sites used for bone marrow harvesting are located in the hip bones and the sternum. The procedure takes place in the operating room. The donor will be anesthetized during the harvest and will not feel the needle. In recovery, the donor may experience some pain in the areas where the needle was inserted.

If the donor is the person him/herself, it is called an autologous bone marrow transplant. If an autologous transplant is planned, previously collected stem cells, from either peripheral (apheresis) or harvest, are counted, screened, and ready to infuse.

The bone marrow transplant procedure:

The preparations for a bone marrow transplant vary depending on the type of transplant, the disease requiring transplant, and your tolerance for certain medications. Consider the following:

• Most often, high doses of chemotherapy and/or radiation are included in the preparations. This intense therapy is required to effectively treat the malignancy and make room in the bone marrow for the new cells to grow. This therapy is often called ablative, or myeloablative, because of the effect on the bone marrow. The bone marrow produces all the blood cells in our body. Ablative therapy prevents this process of cell production and the marrow becomes empty. An empty marrow is needed to make room for the new stem cells to grow and establish a new production system.
  
  
• After the chemotherapy and/or radiation is administered, the marrow transplant is given through the central venous catheter into the bloodstream. It is not a surgical procedure to place the marrow into the bone, but is similar to receiving a blood transfusion. The stem cells find their way into the bone marrow and begin reproducing and establishing new, healthy blood cells.
  
  
• Supportive care is given to prevent and treat infections, side effects of treatments, and complications. This includes frequent blood tests, close monitoring of vital signs, strict measurement of input and output, daily weigh-ins, and providing a protected and sterile environment.

The days before transplant are counted as minus days. The day of transplant is considered day zero. Engraftment and recovery following the transplant are counted as plus days. For example, a patient may enter the hospital on day -8 for preparative regimen. The day of transplant is numbered zero. Days +1, +2, etc., will follow. There are specific events, complications, and risks associated with each day before, during, and after transplant. The days are numbered to help the patient and family understand where they are in terms of risks and discharge planning.

During infusion of bone marrow, the patient may experience the following:

• pain
• chills
• fever
• hives
• chest pain

After infusion, the patient may:

• spend several weeks in the hospital.
• be very susceptible to infection.
• experience excessive bleeding.
• have blood transfusions.
• be confined to a sterile environment.
• take multiple antibiotics and other medications.
• be given medication to prevent graft-versus-host disease - if the transplantation was allogeneic. The transplanted new cells (the graft), tend to attack the patient's tissues (the host), even though the donor is a relative, such as a brother, sister, or parent.
• undergo continual laboratory testing.
• experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, mouth sores, and extreme weakness.
• experience temporary mental confusion and emotional or psychological distress.

After leaving the hospital, the recovery process continues for several months or longer, during which time the patient cannot return to work or many previously enjoyed activities. The patient must also make frequent follow-up visits to the hospital or physician's office.

When does engraftment occur?

Engraftment of the stem cells occurs when the donated cells make their way to the marrow and begin reproducing new blood cells. Depending on the type of transplant and the disease being treated, engraftment usually occurs around day +15 or +30. Blood counts will be performed frequently during the days following transplant to evaluate initiation and progress of engraftment. Platelets are generally the last blood cell to recover.

Engraftment can be delayed because of infection, medications, low donated stem cell count, or graft failure. Although the new bone marrow may begin making cells in the first 30 days following transplant, it may take months, even years, for the entire immune system to fully recover.

What complications and side effects may occur following BMT?

Complications may vary, depending on the following:

• type of marrow transplant
• type of disease requiring transplant
• preparative regimen
• age and overall health of the recipient
• variance of tissue matching between donor and recipient
• presence of severe complications

The following are complications that may occur with a bone marrow transplantation. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. These complications may also occur alone, or in combination:

• infections
  Infections are likely in the patient with severe bone marrow suppression. Bacterial infections are the most common. Viral and fungal infections can be life threatening. Any infection can cause an extended hospital stay, prevent or delay engraftment, and/or cause permanent organ damage. Antibiotics, anti-fungal medications, and anti-viral medications are often given to prevent serious infection in the immunosuppressed patient.
  
  
• low platelets and low red blood cells
  Thrombocytopenia (low platelets) and anemia (low red blood cells), as a result of a non-functioning bone marrow, can be dangerous and even life threatening. Low platelets can cause dangerous bleeding in the lungs, gastrointestinal (GI), and brain.
  
  
• pain
  Pain related to mouth sores and gastrointestinal (GI) irritation is common. High doses of chemotherapy and radiation can cause severe mucositis (inflammation of the mouth and GI tract).
  
  
• fluid overload
  Fluid overload is a complication that can lead to pneumonia, liver damage, and high blood pressure. The primary reason for fluid overload is because the kidneys cannot keep up with the large amount of fluid being given in the form of intravenous (IV) medications, nutrition, and blood products. The kidneys may also be damaged from disease, infection, chemotherapy, radiation, or antibiotics.
  
  
• respiratory distress
  Respiratory status is an important function that may be compromised during transplant. Infection, inflammation of the airway, fluid overload, graft-versus-host disease, and bleeding are all potential life-threatening complications that may occur in the lungs and pulmonary system.
  
  
• organ damage
  The liver and heart are important organs that may be damaged during the transplantation process. Temporary or permanent damage to the liver and heart may be caused by infection, graft-versus-host disease, high doses of chemotherapy and radiation, or fluid overload.
  
  
• graft failure
  Graft failure is a potential complication. Graft failure may occur as a result of infection, recurrent disease, or if the stem cell count of the donated marrow was insufficient to cause engraftment.
  
  
• graft-versus-host disease
• Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) can be a serious and life-threatening complication of a bone marrow transplant. GVHD occurs when the donor's immune system reacts against the recipient's tissue. The new cells do not recognize the tissues and organs of the recipient's body. The most common sites for GVHD are GI tract, liver, skin, and lungs.

Long-term outlook for a bone marrow transplantation:

Prognosis greatly depends on the following:

• type of marrow transplant
• type and extent of the disease being treated
• disease response to treatment
• genetics
• your age and overall health
• your tolerance of specific medications, procedures, or therapies
• severity of complications

Children Help Line

Is any food is getting wasted at your parties???

then instead of wasting it, just dial 1098

Its a Children Help Line No. where u can donate

ur food which is getting wasted to orfans who are

starving with HUNGER.....

Diet For Each Blood Group

What is the Blood Type Diet?

The idea is that “one size fits all” diets don’t work, as everyone has specific dietary needs depending on their blood type. There are four blood types, and D’Adamo says that your blood type has an impact on your digestion, so that you’ll respond differently to different foods, and digest and absorb certain foods more efficiently. The upshot is that you’ll lose weight if you stick to those foods that are specifically beneficial for your blood type.

But how did D’Adamo come up with these beneficial foods? He’s based it on history, which is one of the reasons why most nutritionists are unconvinced by this diet. According to D’Adamo, the different blood groups emerged at different times in history, so you should stick to eating and exercising as your blood type’s ancestors did back in the day.

So all you have to do, the theory goes, is find out your blood type by asking your doctor for a test or donating blood, and then follow a specific diet based on that specific blood type, stocking up on beneficial foods and avoiding ones that don’t agree with your genes.

Blood Type Diet Information: What Should Each Blood Type Eat?

People with Blood Group O, the most common blood group, are supposed to stick to a “hunter gatherer” high protein, low carb, meat and fish based diet. You can eat fruit, vegetables, eggs and nuts in moderation, but dairy and carbs like bread, pasta and rice should be avoided. It’s a typical low-carb diet, similar to popular diets like the Atkins. Like the hunter gatherers of the past, lots of vigorous exercise is recommended too.

People with Blood Group A, the second most common blood group, should thrive on a “cultivator” or farmer’s diet, which would be vegetarian based. You’re allowed lots of vegetables and grains, including typical diet no-nos like pasta and rice, but should avoid dairy products and meat. D’Adamo also recommends slower, less vigorous exercises such as yoga and walking as best for Blood Group As.

People with the more unusual Blood Group B are probably the luckiest, since they’re allowed a “nomadic”, varied diet, including most foods such as meat, dairy, grains and vegetables – in fact this is the only group that is supposed to thrive on dairy products. You’re still restricted though, as carbs, nuts and seeds should only be eaten in moderation. Group Bs should stick to exercises that keep you alert and interested, like tennis or dancing.

People with blood group AB are called the “enigma” by D’Adamo and should eat a mixture of Group A and Group B foods – so a variety of options including meat, fish and dairy are allowed in moderation but with the emphasis on vegetables. Group ABs should do moderate and varied exercises.

First Aid

It is the responsibility of every person to have knowledge of First Aid. It is a human instinct to help other person in pain or after injury. Importance of First Aid has been growing day by day. First Aid is given to people who had an accident or has sudden illness and who cannot obtain medical help instantly.

The main aim of First aid is to

• To save life.
• To promote fast recovery.
• To prevent the aggravation of the victim’s situation.

The features of a rescuer are as follows

• He has to reach the victim in time and save him.
• He has to be keep himself calm, careful and fast in action.
• To have the knowledge of the injury and its nature.
• Know how to carry out the first aid measures and give appropriate treatment.
• Shift the victim to the nearby hospital and show him to a qualified doctor.

Good Blood Donation Tips

As a Blood Donor, there are certain steps you can take to help make your donation experience as safe, successful and pleasant as possible. Here are a few recommendations.

Before Your Donation:

* Get a good night's sleep.
* Eat a good breakfast or lunch.
* Drink extra water and fluids to replace the volume you will donate, but avoid caffeinated beverages.
* Eat iron-rich foods to boost your iron level.
* Avoid fatty foods. Tests for infections done on donated products can be affected by fatty materials.
* If you are an automated donor, get plenty of calcium-rich foods and drinks for a few days prior to your donation.
* If you are a platelet donor, remember that your system must be free of aspirin for two days prior to donation

Its all about AIDS

A . I . D . S

This is the word that still many of us may feel shy to utter...
How many of us really aware about AIDS???atleast the full form...???

AIDS-Acquired immune deficiency syndrome or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

HIV-Human Immune Virus

U know that HIV is not equal to AIDS?
It is only growing n spreading big not only because of infection but
due to lack of AWARENESS...

Here we come up with complete info about HIV/AIDS
Here we hope atleast a single person wil be aware by our small effort.

What is HIV?

HIV stands for: Human Immunodeficiency Virus

HIV is a virus. Viruses cannot grow or reproduce on their own, they need to infect the cells of a living organism in order to replicate (make new copies of themselves). The human immune system usually finds and kills viruses fairly quickly, but HIV attacks the immune system itself – the very thing that would normally get rid of a virus.

With around 2.7 million people becoming infected with HIV in 2007, there are now an estimated 33 million people around the world who are living with HIV, includ

ing millions who have developed AIDS.

What is the connection between HIV and AIDS?

HIV causes AIDS by damaging the immune system cells until the immun

e system can no longer fight off other infections that it would usually be able to prevent.

It takes around ten years on average for someone with HIV to develop AIDS. However, this average is based on a person having a reasonable diet, and someone who is malno

urished may well progress from HIV to AIDS more rapidly.

How is HIV treated?

Antiretroviral drugs keep the levels of HIV in the body at a low level, so that the immune system is able to recover and work effectively. Antiretroviral drugs enable many HIV positive people to live long and healthy lives.

Starting antiretroviral treatment involves commitment – drugs have to be taken every day, and for the rest of a person’s life. Adhering to treatment is important, particularly because not doing so increases the risk ofdrug resistant.Side effets can make adherence difficult, and are sometimes very severe. There are ways of reducing the impact of these side effects, but sometimes it is necessary to change to an alternative treatment regime.

There are more than 20 in the US and Europe, as well as many new drugs currently undergoing trials. Although treatment for HIV has become more widely available in recent years,access to antiretroviral treatment is limited in some parts of the world due to a lack of funding.

The facts about how HIV is passed on

HIV is found in the blood and the sexual fluids of an infected person, and in the breast milk of an infected woman. HIV transmission occurs when a sufficient quan

tity of these fluids get into someone else's bloodstream.

There are various ways a person can become infected with HIV

:

• Unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person: Sexual intercoursecondom carries the risk of HIV infection. without a
• Contact with an infected person's blood: If sufficient blood from somebody who has HIV enters someone else's body then it can pass on the virus.
• Use of infected blood products: Many people in the past have been infected with HIV by the use of blood transfusions and blood products which were contaminated with the virus. In much of the world this is no longer a significant risk, as blood donations are routinely tested for HIV.
• Injecting drugs: HIV can be passed on when injecting equipment that has been used by an infected person is then used by someone else. In many parts of the world, often because it is illegal to possess them, injecting equipment or works are shared.
• From mother to child: HIV can be transmitted from an infected woman to her baby during pregnancy, delivery.
  

Does HIV have symptoms?

Some people experience a flu-like illness, develop a rash, or get swollen glands for a brief period soon after they become infected with HIV. However, these are also common symptoms of other less serious illnesses, and do not necessarily mean that a person has HIV.

Often people who are infected with HIV don’t have any symptoms at all. It is important to remember that a person who has HIV can pass on the virus immediately after becoming infected, even if they feel healthy. It’s not possible to tell just by looking if someone has been infected with HIV.

The only way to know for certain if someone is infected with HIV is for them to be tested.

Testing for HIV

It is important for a person to get tested if they think they may have been at risk of HIV infection.

There are various types of HIV test, but the most commonly used - the antibody or ELISA test - detects HIV antibodies in a person’s blood. It is necessary to wait at least 3 months after the last possible exposure before having an HIV antibody test, to be certain of an accurate result.

The prospect of receiving a positive test result (meaning that a person is infected with HIV) may be daunting, but learning that you are HIV +ve is the first step to getting support and staying healthy. HIV testing is also very important for stopping the spread of HIV, as somebody who is aware of their HIV status can take steps to ensure they do not pass on the virus.

How can HIV be prevented?

Despite considerable investment and research, there is currently no vaccine for HIV, and microbicides (designed to prevent HIV being passed on during sex) are still undergoing trials. However, there are other ways that people can protect themselves from HIV infection, which are the basis of prevention effots aroud the world.

Education about HIV and how it is spread is an essential part of HIV prevention. HIV education needs to be culturally appropriate and can take place in various settings, for example lessons at school, media campaigns, or peer education.

HIV is only half the story…

What happens when HIV develops into AIDS? Why are approximately 2 million people dying from AIDS each year? What are the effects of the global AIDS epidemic?

How often can one donate blood?

A healthy individual ( male or female ) ages 18 – 60 years ,
can donate blood once in 90 days subject to an acceptable level of
pre - donation Hemoglobin concentration.
Please contact the blood bank for criteria.
One can give Blood and can also register so that
he can be contacted in time of need.

Inspiring Pics

Mother

Thank you for visiting.........
The only deed that we humans cannot perform is

C R E A T I O N . . . . . . . . .

so come,join your hands we can atleat save a life.

Eye Donation

Eye Donation...this may be a big word to utter but its a devine deed

that any individual among us can do.

Jus talkin for an example,

HOW MANY OF US REALLY FAMILIAR WITH,say like the

procedure of eye doation , eye banks near to us,etc...

So here we take a time to give you a minimum info about Eye Donation

and about eye banks in visakhapatnam (address , ph. no.)

procedure_Eye Donation

Enquire about the nearest eye collection center/eye bank.This is likely to be collected at a Medical college or Eye hospital in your area.Contact the one nearest you(by phone or a personal visit)and they will register your pledge and provide you with an Eye Donation Card.

It is preferable if all the members of the family pledge their Eyes together.However an individual can also pledge his/her eyes at any time in his life.

The eyes of an deceased person can also be donated whether he has he has pledged his eyes in his life or not.Under law,relatives of the deceased can donate his/her provided he/she has never spoken against Eye Donation.

Frequently Asked Q

Some frequently asked questions about EYE DONATION

Who can be eye donors?
Any good-minded human being from the age of z year can be a donor without any maximum limit for donating the eye. All one needs to do is bequeath his or her eyes by taking a simple pledge to donate the eye after death. While taking a pledge during ones lifetime itself is a noble deed, it requires the support of the relatives or friends to carry out the wishes of eye donation of the deceased. They need to call up the Eye Bank immediately as the eye need to be removed within a maximum of six hours of death. People using spectacles, diabetes and hypertensives can make eye donation.

Can the next of kin consent to a donation if the deceased person has not signed an eye donation form?
Yes, the relatives of the deceased can decide on the eye donation of their beloved one.

How to make the eye donation?
The relatives of the deceased person can donate the eyes of their beloved ones immediately after the death. As explained already, the eyes need to be collected within six hours of death.

Who cannot donate their eyes?
Death due to unknown causes. Death due to infections caused viz. rabies, syphilis, infectious hepatitis, septicemia, and AIDS, cannot be a donor.

What is a cornea?
The cornea is the clear, transparent dome in front of the "black portion" of the eye. It is also the main focusing surface, which converges light rays as they enter the eye to focus on the retina. It is thus the most important part of the optical apparatus of the Eye. Loss of transparency directly results in loss of vision

How does a cornea become opaque?

• Infection
• Injuries
• Iatrogenic (Malpractice, Improper Post-op. care after any eye surgery)
• Malnutrition
• Congenital/Hereditary.

What is corneal transplantation?
A Corneal transplant is an operation that replaces the opaque cornea with a clear cornea obtained from a human donor.

Are there any religious conflicts in eye donation?
There are no religious conflicts on eye donation. Eye donation gives a gift of life or sight to others. As such, it is consistent with beliefs and attitudes of all major religious and ethical traditions.

Will eye donation cause delays in funeral arrangement?
No, Eye removal is performed within half an hour after death and leaves no disfiguring, that would interfere with common funeral practices.

Is the whole eye of the donor transplanted?
No, only the cornea is transplanted. However, the rest of the eye is used for research and education purposes.

Can a person who is blind due to retinal or optic nerve disease donate his eyes?
Yes, provided the cornea of the donor is clear.

Can a living person donate his eyes?
No, donation from living persons is not accepted.

Will the recipient be informed of the donor’s details?
No, the gift of sight is made anonymously.

Facts

Facts about eye donation

Eyes can be donated only after death

• Eyes must be removed within 4 - 6 hours after death
• Only a Registered Medical Practitioner can remove eyes from a deceased.
• The eye bank team will remove the eyes from the home of the deceased or from a hospital
• Eye removal does not delay the funeral since the entire procedure takes 20-30 minutes only
• A small quantity of blood will be drawn to rule out communicable diseases
• Eye retrieval does not cause disfigurement
• Religions are for eye donation
• The identities of both the donor and the recipient are kept confidential

Important points

To donate eyes, the relatives of the deceased should do the following procedures

• Close the eyelids of the deceased
• Switch off the fan
• Raise the head of the deceased slightly by placing a pillow underneath
• Contact the nearest eye bank as quickly as possible.
• Give the correct address with specific landmarks and telephone number to enable the eye bank team locate the place easily
• If the death certificate from the physician is available, keep it ready
• Eye donation can be done only with the written consent of the next of kin in the presence of two witnesse.

what else can I do for the Blind?

There are many other ways in which you can make a contribution to the cause of the visually impaired. Be it, assisting them in a variety of tasks aimed at educating the blind, rehabilitation, helping execute programs, improving employment opportunities or by just providing counseling.

Educating the blind

1. Transcription of books on the computer in word
2. Assisting in proof reading of Braille Text
3. Public evaluation of the services offered by the Braille press
4. Reading academic books or interested articles, leisure books and journals to the blind students and adults
5. Transcription of books in Braille from Indian languages as well as from English
6. Assisting blind students to write their exams
7. Assisting in scanning and editing of Braille material
8. Help in reading and writing drafts, letters, speeches etc for government officers.

Rehabilitation of the blind

1. Volunteer to accompany the blind for picnics or in other simple joys of life
2. Helping volunteers in managing the recreation programs that are conducted for the blind trainees

Improving opportunities for women

1. Help co-ordinate programs organized for the blind women by various organization
2. Data collection of projects
3. Counseling services for blind women
4. Aid in securing jobs from the corporate sector
5. Spread awareness through word of mouth and other methods among the young and elderly public
6. Offer expertise in the training areas of catering, handicrafts and other related fields
7. Assist blind girls/women in shopping, color selection and other mundane yet essential tasks

Employment Opportunities

1. Inspection of existing Telephone Booth
2. Assisting in securing Employment for the Blind

Counseling

1. Counseling the blind etc.