THE SA National Blood Service (SANBS) is particularly encouraging O and B blood group donors who are due to donate to come forward as these groups contribute significantly to the stability of the national blood supply.

All other eligible South Africans are also encouraged to donate blood amid declining national blood stocks. SANBS emphasised that all blood groups are welcome and needed.

SANBS recently released a press statement saying it aims to maintain a five-day blood supply to ensure hospitals have access to blood when patients need it.

To meet daily demand, SANBS needs to collect 3500 units of blood daily. However, the blood services said current collections are falling short of this target, placing continued pressure on the national blood supply.

Monique Schreiner, Senior Manager: Donor Relations at SANBS, said several factors are contributing to lower collections, including fewer blood drives at schools and universities during the examination period and competing demands on donors’ time.

However, Schreiner said addressing the current need requires more than regular donors alone.

“SANBS is calling on three groups to step forward: donors who are due to donate, people who have never donated before, and lapsed donors who are able to return to donating. While students are understandably focused on their examinations, the need for blood continues every day.

“Mothers give birth, patients undergo surgery, accident and trauma victims require emergency care, and people receiving ongoing treatment depend on a safe and sufficient supply of blood. We are appealing to all eligible South Africans to make time to donate – whether you are a regular donor who is due, considering donating for the first time, or a previous donor who has not donated for some time,” she said.

She explained that O negative is the universal blood type used in emergencies and Group B contributes significantly to maintaining balanced stock for specific patient groups. However, SANBS emphasised that all blood groups are welcome and needed.

“Blood cannot be manufactured. It can only come from people who choose to give. A single donation takes about 30 minutes and can save up to three lives,” added Schreiner.

For more information or to find your nearest donor centre or mobile blood drive, contact the SANBS toll free line on 0800 11 90 31 or visit www.sanbs.org.za.

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