SANBS campaign focused on lifesaving impact of blood donation

With just weeks to go until the start of the festive season, SANBS has launched an awareness campaign that seeks to drive blood donation in anticipation of the holiday season.

SANBS CEO Ravi Reddy admitted this year has seen concerning fluctuations in blood stocks throughout the year and hopes donors will help them reach five days’ stock, which is needed to ensure a sustainable supply for the country.

“Blood donations in South Africa have always been low, considering that less than 1% of the population actively give blood.

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“Now, due to Covid-19 and lockdown, the number has declined further in the past 18 months.

We hope this campaign, which presents a new perspective on the need for blood, will drive an increase in donations,” said Reddy.

The awareness campaign will commence on November 15 using a 360 approach to reach maximum audiences across the country through the use of radio, billboards and the various SANBS social media platforms.

Donating blood means saving lives, and Reddy said SANBS is grateful to its blood donors, partners and service providers for their continued support through these trying times.

“We hope this campaign will inspire and encourage the public to include blood donation in its daily lives and to join in this lifesaving mission by becoming committed donors. At a time when we are unable to gather for much else, we can at least join forces for this common cause – giving the gift of life,” said Reddy.

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To become a blood donor, you must:

• Be between the ages of 16 and 75

• Weigh 50kg or more

• Be in good health

• Lead a healthy lifestyle

• Consider your blood safe for transfusion to a patient

To find out more about where you can donate blood, visit www.sanbs.org.za or call 0800 11 90 31.

Connect with them on Twitter (@theSANBS), Facebook (@SANBS) and Instagram (@thesanbs).