Blood Transfusions-A Long History of Controversy

 Blood Transfusions and War

During  World War I, blood was literally trasfused into wounded soldiers.  Of course, blood clots quickly, and previously it would have been all but impossible to transport it to the battlefield.  But early in the 20th century, Dr. Richard Lwwisohn, of Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, successfully experimented wiht an anticoagulant  called sodium citrate.  This exciting breakthrough was regarded by some doctors as a miracle.  "It was almost as if the sun had been made to stand still," wrote Dr. Bertram,  a distinquished phsician of his day.

World War II saw an increase in the demand for blood.  The public was bombarded woith posters bearing such slogans as "Give Blood Now," Your Blood Can Save Him." and "He Gave His Blood.  Will You Give Yours?"  The call for blood brought great response.  During World War II, some 13,000,000  units were donated in the United States.  It is estimated that in London more than 68,500 gallons [260,000 L] were collected and distributed.   Of course, blood transfusions carried a number of health risks, as soon became clear.

Next time: Blood Transfusions-A Long History of Controversy - Blood-Borne  Diseases

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