SANBS calls for donations amid dwindling stocks
SANBS needs to collect 3500 units of blood a day and is urgently appealing to all potential and existing blood donors that are due to donate.
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is facing severe blood stock shortages, current weather conditions and a higher-than-usual demand for blood have sent blood stocks plummeting.
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SANBS needs to collect 3500 units of blood a day and is urgently appealing to all potential and existing blood donors that are due to donate by visiting a SANBS blood donation site.
Thandi Mosupye, SANBS senior manager of marketing, communication and brand, said the little blood available on hand, will have a severe impact on the patients who rely on life-saving blood transfusions.
“Whenever our blood stocks reach below three days, it places the lives of patients at risk.
ALSO READ: Donate blood to SANBS and help to save lives
“The lives of haemorrhaging mothers, newborn babies, accident victims, and thousands of other patients in need of a blood transfusion.
“Each blood donation gives patients a second chance with their loved ones. Another Christmas to remember, another summer holiday at the beach, another birthday celebration,” Mosupye added.
To become a blood donor, you must:
• Be between the ages of 16 and 75 years
• Weigh 50kg or more
• Be in good health
• Lead a healthy lifestyle
• Consider your blood safe for transfusion to a patient
• Commit to donating blood regularly
To find out more about where you can donate blood, visit www.sanbs.org.za or call 0800 11 90 31.
