Students are an invaluable resource in saving lives as they make up a large proportion of the national blood donor base. Yet the recent protest action at universities has disrupted scheduled blood drives and in combination with preparations for end-of-year exams, the situation is negatively impacting on the national blood supply.
Blood drives at university campuses and schools yield about 40% units of blood collected annually and although SANBS has systems in place to minimise the effects of shortages experienced during exams, protests have been an unpredictable factor.
As a result of the dangerously low blood stocks, SANBS is appealing to members of the public who are due for their regular donation to visit the nearest donor centre as soon as they can because many lives will be affected by this.
“A shortage in blood hinders our ability to save hundreds of lives daily because without an adequate supply, essential treatment for various patients can not occur,” says SANBS spokesperson Vanessa Raju.
Blood is used for emergencies as well as treating people who are living with different blood diseases and women who haemorrhage while giving birth.
SANBS must collect about 3000 units of blood daily in order to meet daily demand for this resource and keep stock levels above the two-day mark.
The minimum requirements to be a blood donor are:
• Be between the ages of 16 and 65 years;
• Weigh a minimum of 50kg;
• Be in general good health; and
• Live a safe sexual lifestyle.
Polokwane – To donate blood visit the SANBS Polokwane clinic in Potgieter Avenue or contact (015) 283 3610.
Mokopane – For for information residents of Mokopane can visit SANBS at 99 Thabo Mbeki drive.
Should you meet the above requirements and wish to find out where you can donate blood, visit www.sanbs.org.za or contact 0800 11 9031.
