Donate blood and make the world a healthier place

Each year, millions of South Africans need blood transfusions in order to lead healthy lives. If it weren’t for voluntary blood donations, who knows what people would have to do to get blood when they needed it?

Trude Gareekoe, from the local SANBS, urged the public to donate blood and reminded people that there is no substitute for human blood.

“There has been a slight increase in blood donations since the country started to gradually ease lockdown restrictions; however, we’re still urgently in need of blood.”

The donor centre at the East Rand Mall remains accessible. Their operating hours will be from 9am to 6pm on weekdays and 8am to 3pm on weekends. Donors are advised to use entrance three.

This is where your blood goes

There is a misconception that most of the blood donated in South Africa goes to accident victims. This is not the case. Here is a rough breakdown from the SANBS of where the blood it collects is used:

28 per cent is used to treat cancer and aplastic anaemia

27 per cent is used during childbirth

21 per cent is used for scheduled surgery

10 per cent is used for paediatric care

Six per cent goes to laboratories

Six per cent is used for orthopaedic care

Four per cent is used for accident or trauma victims.