Your blood saves lives
Every unit of blood can save a minimum of three lives as blood is separated into red blood cells, plasma and platelets.
Less than one percent of South Africans are active blood donors.
A unit of blood only lasts 42 days after donation and, for this reason, it is important for blood donors to donate regularly. Donors can give blood as often as every eight weeks.
Every unit of blood can save a minimum of three lives as blood is separated into red blood cells, plasma and platelets.
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) aims to collect 3000 units of blood per day to ensure a safe and sufficient blood supply in the health care system.
A person can donate blood if they:
* Weigh at least 50kg;
* Are between the ages of 16 and 75;
* Are in good health;
* Lead a low-risk lifestyle
Why donate blood?
Donating a unit of this precious gift of life saves lives of those in dire need of blood. One must develop a habit of donating blood in order for the SANBS to collect sufficient blood that will ensure that in cases of emergency quality blood is always available.
Thousands of patients would die daily if there is insufficient quality blood in stock. When one donates blood, they give patients the gift money cannot buy or science cannot create. A unit of blood can save up to three lives as blood is separated into red blood cells, plasma and platelets.
Who needs blood?
* Women haemorrhaging due to pregnancy complication and other gynaecological complications.
* Premature babies
* Children with severe anaemia.
* Accident trauma patients.
* Surgical and cancer patients.
To donate blood locally, visit the SANBS at its new premises at Southcoast Mall (the Shelly Centre office is closed).
It is open from 9am to 5pm, Mondays to Fridays and 8.30am to 2pm on Saturdays.
For more information call 031 7196753.
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