Malta National Blood Transfusion Service
What is Blood?
 
Blood is the life-maintaining fluid, pumped by the heart through all the arteries, veins and capillaries.   This accounts for approximately 7% of total human body weight.
   

 

Functions of blood:

Transportation:-

See Graphical Design of Blood Flow (broadband connection recommended)
  • Oxygen from the lungs to the cells of the body and carbon dioxide from the cells to the lungs.
  • Nutrients from the gasrointestinal tract to body cells.
  • Hormones form the endocrine glands to other body cells.
  • Heat that regulates body temperature
  • Waste products away from the cells such as excess water

Regulate :-

  • Electrolyte balance (that is a substance containing free ions, that behaves as an electrically conductive medium).
  • Helps to regulate pH

Protection :-

  • Certain blood cells protect against blood loss (clotting mechanism).
  • Leukocytes provide immunity against infection.
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