8 facts to encourage you to donate this World Blood Donor Day
Blood comes with an expiration date, which is why regular blood donations are needed to meet the needs of chronically ill and critically injured patients around the country daily. Here are 8 reasons why you should consider donating...
On Tuesday (14 June), we will celebrate World Blood Donor Day in an effort to raise awareness and encourage people to donate the gift of life.
It’s not often that we’re given the opportunity to save someone’s life with so little effort and at no cost to ourselves, yet there are still very few people who donate blood.
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This year, we hope to change that by sharing 8 facts about this blood donation.
1. No substitutes
Despite all the medical advances, there are simply no substitutes for blood, platelets or plasma. Because it cannot be manufactured, patients in need of blood or blood products rely solely on the donations made by people like yourself.
2. Lacking donors
Despite the lifesaving properties of blood donation, very few South Africans are regular blood donors. In fact, less than 1% of South African citizens are active blood donors.
3. Daily needs
More than 38 000 blood donations are needed every day with donations benefitting more than 800 000 people every year.
4. Spike in need
During the holiday period, when traffic accidents are known to increase, the need for blood donations rises. It’s important that blood donations are made ahead of these peak times so that there is no shortage.
5. Blood types
While all blood is welcomed, there are certain blood groups that are particularly useful. Type O-negative whole blood can be transfused to people with any blood type, but this type of blood is rare which is why supplies are low. Type AB plasma can be transfused to patients with all other blood types, but this too is in short supply.
6. Biggest need
More than 1 million people are diagnosed with cancer for the first time every year, and the majority of blood donations are used in the treatment of cancer.
7. 1 for 3
Because blood is separated into red blood cells, plasma and platelets, one unit of blood donated can be used to save a minimum of three lives.
8. 1 in 8
One unit of blood lasts only 42 days which is why blood stocks deplete so quickly and blood donations need to be made regularly. In fact, blood donations can be made as often as once every eight weeks.
If you are between 16 and 75 years, weigh a minimum of 50kgs, are in good health and lead a low-risk lifestyle, then consider donating at your nearest SANBS blood donation centre today.
Remember – don’t wait, please DONATE!
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