….CALLS FOR ENHANCED SUPPORT FOR BLOOD DONORS’ WELLBEING
By Vincess Okushi
The World Health Organization has said that only 18 out of 47 countries have reached the regional target of at least 80% of blood supply from Voluntary Non-Remunerated Blood Donors.
It said the situation is alarming especially as the demand for blood remains constant, with supply often falling short of its expectations in Africa.
In a message to commemorate this year’s 2024 global campaign on World Blood Donor Day theme: “20 years of celebrating giving: Thank you, blood donors!” the WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Matshidiso Moeti, on 14 June 2024 said the critical role Blood transfusion plays in the provision of lifesaving health care across vulnerable people, such as mothers during childbirth, under-nourished and malaria-affected children, victims of trauma and accidents, and patients suffering from sickle cell and other chronic diseases cannot be overemphasized.
And called on Member States to uphold the WHO’s blood regulatory systems while setting up a special national time to inspire citizens to donate blood.
She noted that as the world celebrates the milestone of its 20th year of giving, donor organizations should be encouraged to support capacity-building efforts for efficient National Blood Transfusion Services.
Additionally, communities should also galvanize support for those who donate blood to encourage others to donate to increase the availability of life-saving donor blood when and where it is needed most.
Our Member States in the African Region have made significant progress between 2015 and 20221-3a) The number of countries that have fully developed a national blood policy, increased from 37 in 2015 to 43 in 2022.b) The average number of blood units collected per 1000 population increased from 4.5 to 5.2 as compared to the regional target of 10 units per 1000 population.c) The percentage of countries participating in an external quality assessmentscheme for transfusion-transmissible infections (TTIs) increased from 55.3% to 62.2%.We sincerely thank our Member States for their efforts.Despite these improvements, countries must address the persistent challenges in the availability of safe blood and blood products.Currently, African countries collect only 5.2 units of blood for every 1000 people, below the ten donations or more per 1000 people recommended by WHO and far from the 33 units of blood per 1000 people collected in developed countries.This 20th anniversary is fitting to reflect on our achievements, address our challenges, and envision a future where safe blood transfusion is universally accessible.Let us also remember the health of blood donors and the quality of care accorded to them. This is critical in encouraging them and building the commitment and willingness to donate blood regularly.
