Youth urged to donate blood to save lives

Health experts on ‘World Blood Donor Day’ urged healthy individuals particularly the youth to voluntarily donate blood as a single drop of blood can save precious lives. They called youngsters to actively take part in awareness campaigns via social media to safeguard humanity.

WHO Advisor on Blood Safety Dr Hasan Abbas Zaheer while talking to the media said that awareness on blood donation was essential to encourage people to come forward to support those in need. He urged the younger generation to participate in this pious deed through special camps to ensure adequate availability of blood in local healthcare centres.

Blood transfusion plays a crucial role in saving lives and enhancing health however a significant number of patients in need of transfusions face challenges in accessing safe blood on time. Therefore, providing safe and adequate blood should be an integral part of every country’s national health care policy and infrastructure, he added.

In response to a question, he recommended that all blood donations should be screened for infections prior to use, adding, that screening for HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and Syphilis should be deemed mandatory. He stressed the importance of conducting blood screening in accordance with quality system requirements. Additionally, he emphasised the significance of expressing gratitude towards blood donors worldwide and promoting increased awareness regarding the necessity of regular blood donation.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 15^th, 2023.