Every day 3 000 units of blood are transfused to patients in dire need of it. If it was not for donors who give their time and blood, blood transfusions in South Africa would not exist.
During June, which is National Blood Donor Month in South Africa, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) pays tribute to its 350 000 blood donors, who sacrifice their time to try to save the lives of people in desperate need of blood or blood products.
The main event during Blood Donor Month is World Blood Donor Day, which is celebrated on June 14 every year. The 2008 theme is “Many Happy Returns”. And the service hopes to encourage people to donate blood every 56 days.
“Although we have a large number of blood donors on our panel, the usage of blood increases by 7,33% year-on-year. If more people don’t take up blood donation, fewer people will get saved,” said Dr Loyiso Mpuntsha, chief executive of SANBS.
The SANBS follows strict guidelines set by the World Health Organisation (WHO). One of these is to accept blood from voluntary, non-remunerated blood donors only. It has been proved that these blood donors are the safest in the world as they donate blood for altruistic reasons only, without expecting anything in return. They are also least likely to be untruthful about their risk status and lifestyle.
Since the inception of blood donation in South Africa, this criterion has been followed and SANBS is a world leader in the area of blood transfusion. In certain countries donors are still paid for their blood, which holds serious health risks for patients. The WHO wants all countries to move to a system of voluntary, non-remunerated blood donors by 2012.
Facts about blood
After every donation, blood is divided into three components: red cells, plasma and platelets, each with their own specific use.
Red cells are used during operations and for accident victims, anaemic patients, certain cancer patients and rhesus babies.
Plasma is used to restore blood volume and to make the following blood products:
Immunoglobulin is used for protection against diseases;
Albumin is used to restore blood volume and treatment of burns;
Factor VIII and IX are used for treating blood disorders, such as haemophilia.
Platelets are used for blood clotting.
Who can donate blood?
People who:
Weigh 50kg or more;
Are between 16 and 65 years;
Are in good health;
Lead a sexually safe lifestyle; and
Consider their blood safe for transfusion.
For more information on local clinics call SANBS Toll Free: 0800 11 9031.