SANBS: Blood stocks run low
There are just two days supply left said the South African National Blood Service (SANBS).
LIFE saving blood stocks across KwaZulu-Natal are currently running low with just two days supply left, said the South African National Blood Service (SANBS). According to Dennis Ngongoma, public relations at the service, appealed to the public to come out and donate blood and save a life.
According to Ngongoma, the SANBS must collect an average of 3 000 units of blood a day.
“The greatest needs for blood are for patients who are terminally ill and rely on daily, if not weekly transfusions for their survival. We need more donors from all blood groups and types,” he said. “By donating blood the iron stores in the body are maintained at healthy levels. And the reduction in iron levels in the body is linked with low cancer risk. The importance of donation blood is that each unit of blood can be separated into it’s various components – red cells, plasma and platelets – and given to patients with different needs.”
In light of the shortage, Ethekwini Hospital and Heart Centre recently hosted its regular blood drive. More than 20 people donated blood on the day including staff member, Sanjay Ramjeith, who donated blood for the 103rd time.
Northglen News spoke to Ramjeith who explained why he supports the SANBS.
“I know this is an extremely tough time for the SANBS. My blood could literally save a life, you or someone you know will need blood because of an accident, surgery, or an unforeseen event, it’s my social responsibility. I urge people to donate blood to save lives,” he said.
