HOSPITALS are experiencing blood shortages owing to critically low blood stock levels. This means there is a high risk of losing lives who might need a lifesaving blood transfusion; that’s according to the statement released by the South African National Blood Service this month.
According to the SANBS collections in the country continue to drop drastically during this festive season, resulting in a daily average of about 1.8 day’s blood being available.
This is far less than the five-day stock required to be collected to ensure that the country’s demand for safe and adequate blood is met.
SANBS needs to collect 3 000 units of blood a daily to make sure the supply is sufficient. Without these donated blood, many patients are in danger of losing their lives.
Research shows that around 36% of blood that the SANBS collects is used for women who lose blood during childbirth and gynaecological cases as well as for paediatric cases like surgery of foetuses, infants, children, adolescents and young adults.
One unit of blood can save up to 3 lives. If a single person donates blood four times a year, this can save up to 12 lives. The SANBS pleads to all South Africans who meet the minimum requirements to commit to donating blood, especially at this very difficult period. This act of kindness can save up to three lives.
Minimum requirements to be a donor:
• Be between the ages of 16 – 65 years
• Weigh more than 50 kg
• Be in good health
• Live a sexually safe lifestyle
For more information please contact the SANBS on 0800 11 9031 or visit their website www.sanbs.org.za or their social network site: facebook.com/SANBS | Twitter @theSANBS
