Should blood be irradiated before given to the patient during a blood transfusion? are there any risks? is it all upside in minimizing disease?

Irradiated blood: is given only in special occasions for patients that need that (e.g. immunocompromised patients), and not a standard for any blood transfusion

Specific use: This is done to kill off white blood cells that can cause graft-versus-host disease in the unborn and in people with severe immunodeficiency. It's pricey and the potassium in the fluid is way-high -- and it offers no benefits to the vast majority of recipients.

Not a routine: Agree with Drs. Hegab and Friedlander Radiating blood is only needed when there is risk of graft vs. host disease. In addition to the circumstances already mentioned, some times if the blood donor is a relative, it may warrant irradiation. Wish you good health! - Have a diet rich in fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, milk and milk products, nuts, beans, legumes, lentils and small amounts of lean meats. Avoid saturated fats. Drink enough water daily, so that your urine is mostly colorless. Exercise at least 150 minutes/week and increase the intensity of exercise gradually. Do not use tobacco, alcohol, weed or street drugs in any form. Practice safe sex, if you have sex.