Blood transfusion

Blood transfusion is a safe procedure. Find out about the different types, why you might need a blood transfusion and what happens when you receive it.

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Blood types

Your blood type, or blood group, is decided by the genes you inherit from your parents. Find out why being given the wrong type of blood can be very dangerous.

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Thalassaemia

This inherited blood disorder prevents someone from making enough healthy haemoglobin to carry oxygen around the body, but it may not need treatment.

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Red blood cells

Red blood cells carry oxygen around your body and transport carbon dioxide to the lungs. Learn about related health problems and how a healthy diet can help produce red blood cells.

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Blood donation

Australia relies on the generosity of donors who volunteer their time and blood. Learn from a trusted source about the blood donation process.

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What is a haematologist?

A haematologist is a specialist doctor who treats conditions that affect the blood – such as leukaemia and haemophilia – and the organs that make the blood.

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Ebola virus

Ebola is a rare and often fatal illness. Learn about the Ebola virus, who’s at risk, symptoms and treatment options.

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HTLV-1 infection

Human T-cell leukaemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is a virus that infects T-cells, white blood cells that form part of the immune system. Learn more here.

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Thrombocytopenia

Thrombocytopenia (also spelt thrombocytopaenia) is low platelets, which can result in bleeding problems. Learn more about its causes and symptoms.

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Aortic valve replacement

The aortic valves in the heart keep blood flowing in the correct direction. Learn how to prepare for an aortic valve replacement and what to expect.

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Sickle cell anaemia

Sickle cell anaemia is the most common and serious form of sickle cell disease, in which the body produces too many unstable red blood cells.

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Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a virus that can cause serious liver disease in an infected person. The hepatitis C virus is usually transmitted when blood from an infected person enters the bloodstream of another person.

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Iron studies

Iron studies are blood tests that look at how much iron is in your blood and other cells. Too little or too much iron can cause problems.

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Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B can lead to liver damage over time. If it turns out you have hepatitis B, it is important to protect others from infection. Find out how.

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Drugs in sport

Using drugs to give you an edge in sports performance can also affect your health. Find out about what damage drugs can do to your health by reading our page.

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Chest injuries

Chest injury is any injury to the chest area, between the neck and the abdomen. Learn about the signs of injury and treatments.

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Blood and blood vessels

Blood flowing through the blood vessels carries oxygen, nutrients and waste around the body. Find out the components of blood.

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G6PD deficiency

G6PD deficiency, sometimes called 'favism', is a genetic disorder that causes red blood cells to break down when exposed to triggers. People with G6PD deficiency can live a healthy life.

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Iron deficiency

Iron is an essential mineral for our bodies and when iron levels are too low it can cause anaemia. Read about how low levels of iron can lead to health problems.

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Syphilis

Syphilis is relatively rare in Australia. It can cause serious health problems if left untreated. However, syphilis is easy to cure if found early.

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HIV infection and AIDS

People with HIV are unlikely to transmit the virus or develop AIDS if they get effective treatment. Learn about HIV prevention, testing and treatment.

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