SANBS calls on South Africans to donate blood as stocks decline
With collections falling below the 3 500-unit daily target, SANBS is urging new, returning and regular donors to help keep the country’s blood supply stable.
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is calling on eligible South Africans to donate blood amid declining national blood stocks.
Senior manager of donor relations at SANBS, Monique Schreiner, said they are aiming to maintain a five-day blood supply to ensure hospitals have access to blood when patients need it.
She explained that SANBS needs to collect 3 500 units of blood each day to meet daily demand. However, current collections are falling short of this target, placing continued pressure on the national blood supply.
Several factors contributing to lower collections
Schreiner said fewer blood drives are being held at schools and universities during the examination period, while competing demands on donors’ time are also affecting collections.
“Fewer blood drives at schools and universities during the examination period and competing demands on donors’ time. However, addressing the current need requires more than regular donors alone,” said Schreiner.
SANBS is calling on three groups of potential donors:
• Donors who are due to donate
• People who have never donated before
• Lapsed donors who can return to donating
Schreiner explained that 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.”
“Whether you’re returning to donate or considering giving blood for the first time, your decision can make a meaningful difference. Every donor helps strengthen our blood supply and gives patients the hope of another tomorrow.”
SANBS is 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.
• O negative is the universal blood type used in emergencies.
• Group B contributes significantly to maintaining balanced stock for specific patient groups.
SANBS emphasised that all blood groups are welcome and needed.
“Blood can’t 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.
The need continues. Lives cannot wait. If you are eligible to donate, now is the time to step forward and give blood.
Visit your nearest SANBS donor centre or blood drive and donate. 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.
