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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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Nine Pints summary
Rose George
A Journey Through the Money, Medicine, and Mysteries of Blood
24 mins
Brief summary
Nine Pints by Rose George is a fascinating exploration of the science, culture, and history of blood. From blood donation to menstruation, it covers topics ranging from medical advances to societal stigmas.
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Nine Pints
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Key idea 1 of 7
Blood is a useful but complicated compound.
There’s a paradox about blood: while most of us are more interested in the lungs or heart, both of these organs only perform their functions to serve the blood. That is, the lungs are there to introduce oxygen into the blood, while the heart moves blood around the body.
Blood is the Swiss Army knife of our bodies: it’s an everyday tool with many functions.
Our 30 trillion red blood cells, which give blood its distinctively rich color, deliver oxygen to the body’s organs and tissues. These cells also conduct waste disposal, carrying the used oxygen – now converted into carbon dioxide – back to the lungs for removal. In a single day, these cells travel a combined total of 12,000 miles.
Blood contains other cells, too. Platelets, for example, will move to a site of bleeding to help clot the blood and stop the flow. When you injure yourself and see the bleeding slow down, you’re witnessing a dazzling biological dance involving millions of platelets and proteins.
There are also white blood cells – the weapons of our immune system. When our bodies detect a threat, whether from a virus, bacteria or toxin, white blood cells attach themselves to the intruder and digest it.
Given all the valuable functions of blood, it’s no wonder that blood transfusions are a crucial procedure in medical care. We transfuse red blood cells into transplant patients to help their bodies accept new organs, and cancer patients with too few platelets are infused with millions more. Globally, someone receives a stranger’s blood every three seconds.
But we can’t transfuse a patient with just any blood.
All blood has a type, which is determined by antigens, that is, molecules that stick to the surface of red blood cells. But antigens come in different types. All blood cells have H antigens; it’s the combination of A and B antigens that determines blood type. Type A blood has only A antigens, and Type B has only B. Type AB has both, while Type O has neither.
Type is then further classified according to the Rhesus factor, which identifies the blood as either “positive” or “negative” depending on its specific cocktail of antigens. Our bodies will only accept blood of the correct type. The body of a patient with A negative blood will reject a transfusion of B positive. In the most severe cases, the patient can even go into hemolytic shock and die.
Leeches, however, welcome all blood types.
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What is Nine Pints about?
Nine Pints (2018) explores the rich but neglected story of blood. Taking a panoramic view and approaching the subject from multiple angles, Rose George looks into the science of blood and details some of the institutions, businesses and taboos that have arisen around this vital fluid.
Nine Pints Review
Nine Pints (2018) by Rose George is a captivating exploration of the mysterious and vital substance that flows through our veins. Here's why this book is definitely worth reading:
- With in-depth research and fascinating stories, the book takes readers on a journey through the history, science, and cultural significance of blood.
- George's compelling narratives about blood donation, transfusion, and the global blood industry shed light on the life-saving impact that blood has on individuals and societies.
- The book confronts important issues such as stigma, discrimination, and the ethical dilemmas associated with blood and its use, challenging readers to reflect on their own perceptions.
Who should read Nine Pints?
- Armchair doctors fascinated by medical science
- Anyone not clued up on the brilliance of blood
- Squeamish souls who need to face their fears
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Nine Pints FAQs
What is the main message of Nine Pints?
The main message of Nine Pints is the fascinating exploration of the vital, life-sustaining liquid that is blood.
How long does it take to read Nine Pints?
The reading time for Nine Pints varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes several hours. The Blinkist summary, on the other hand, can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Nine Pints a good book? Is it worth reading?
Nine Pints is worth reading as it offers an intriguing insight into the inner workings of our bodies and how blood connects us all.
Who is the author of Nine Pints?
The author of Nine Pints is Rose George.
What to read after Nine Pints?
If you're wondering what to read next after Nine Pints, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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