Maybe you're in your car on your way to a blood drive, or perhaps you've just pulled into your local OBI donation center, when a thought enters your mind: I smoke... am I able to give blood?
Don't panic! In most cases, smoking won't automatically disqualify you from blood donation. However, there are important considerations to keep in mind to ensure both donor safety and the safety of those receiving blood transfusions.
Can You Donate Blood If You Smoke Cigarettes?
Yes, you can donate blood if you smoke cigarettes. Tobacco use does not disqualify you from donating, but it is recommended that you avoid smoking for a few hours before and after donation.
Can You Donate Blood If You Smoke Weed?
Cannabis use does not automatically disqualify you from donating blood. However, we require that you be sober at the time of donation. If you appear under the influence or impaired, you may be deferred from donating that day.
What If THC Is in Your System?
THC, the active compound in marijuana, can stay in your system for days or even weeks, depending on frequency of use. Our Blood Institute does not test for the presence of THC, however. Instead, our primary concern is whether the donor is sober and capable of consenting at the time of donation.
Can You Donate Plasma or Platelets If You Smoke?
Generally speaking, yes. The same rules generally apply to plasma and platelet donation for cannabis and non-cannabis smokers.
