The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) urges the public to donate blood this winter due to reduced collection during the cold season.
According to the WCBS, since the start of winter, O positive and O negative blood stocks have consistently remained below their target of a five-day supply, highlighting the urgent need for more blood donors.
The blood service has since launched a winter campaign with the theme: ‘Be bold. Donate blood’.
The campaign challenges people to move beyond hesitation and take the first step toward becoming a blood donor. For many, donating blood can feel daunting.
Some are nervous about needles, others are unsure about the donation process, and many simply keep putting it off for another day.
According to WCBS, the campaign aims to show that being bold does not mean being fearless. It means choosing to do something important despite your fears.
“Winter is traditionally one of the most challenging periods for blood collection. Seasonal illnesses, inclement weather and lower donor attendance can all affect blood donations,” WCBS Public Relations Manager, Marike Carli, said.
At the same time, demand for blood remains constant, with hospitals relying on a stable blood supply to treat trauma patients, cancer patients, mothers experiencing childbirth complications, surgical patients and many others whose lives depend on blood transfusions.
Carli said the WCBS aims to maintain a minimum five-day blood stock level across all blood groups to ensure that hospitals throughout the Western Cape have the blood they need.
The challenge is compounded by the fact that only 0.95% of the Western Cape population are active blood donors. To maintain a sustainable blood supply, the WCBS aims to have between 1% and 1.2% of the population actively donating blood.
The WCBS continues to recruit new donors each year; growing the active donor base remains critical to ensuring blood is available for patients whenever it is needed.
“The campaign places particular focus on younger adults and first-time donors, encouraging them to make their first donation and become part of a community of everyday heroes who help ensure blood is available whenever and wherever it is needed,” Carli said.
IOL
Robin-Lee Francke
iol.co.za