Blood Donations Needed to Save Lives in the Western Cape

Blood Donations Needed to Save Lives in the Western Cape

Blood is a critical resource that is needed daily to keep patients alive, and its demand is constant.

Unfortunately, blood cannot be manufactured outside the body, and it has a limited shelf life, making it crucial to maintain an adequate supply at all times.
However, the Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) is currently facing a pressing issue as they struggle to maintain the required 5-day blood stock levels.

The fluctuation in blood stock levels can be attributed to the delicate balance between supply and demand. The WCBS diligently evaluates the number of blood units needed and dispatches collection teams daily to gather donations. However, when the anticipated amount of blood is not collected, it places immense pressure on the overall blood supply.

Several factors contribute to the shortage of blood supply during certain periods throughout the year. The winter months pose significant challenges due to unfavorable weather conditions and the impact of storms in Cape Town. During this time, potential blood donors often experience colds and flu, rendering them unable to donate blood until three days after their symptoms have resolved.

Another crucial period that affects blood supply is school and public holidays. Many regular blood donors take a well-deserved break during these times and do not attend their usual blood donation clinics. Additionally, schools and universities, where blood donation clinics are often held, remain closed during holidays, further exacerbating the shortage.

Moreover, the month of Ramadan also influences blood supply. Muslim donors, who observe the fast during this holy month, are unable to donate blood as it is a requirement for a donor to have eaten at least 3 to 4 hours before donation. Consequently, this further limits the pool of potential donors.

Apart from the factors affecting blood supply, the demand for blood can escalate during periods when trauma cases or elective surgeries increase. In South Africa alone, thousands of patients rely on life-saving blood transfusions on a daily basis. Blood is crucial not only for accident victims but also for patients undergoing chemotherapy, awaiting bone marrow transplants, experiencing childbirth, undergoing heart surgery, grappling with immunodeficiency disorders, or needing treatment for low platelet counts.

Marike Carli, the Public Relations Manager at WCBS, emphasizes the urgency of the situation. “As we are currently in the middle of winter and school holidays, we encourage everyone to support the many patients who desperately need blood during this crucial period,” she urges. To show appreciation for blood donors, or as they refer to them, local heroes, the WCBS is giving a pair of hero-inspired socks to each donor who successfully donates blood during the winter period.

Carli emphasizes, “Not all heroes wear capes; they donate blood and save lives. No matter who you are, you could become a hero. Register to become a blood donor today.” Eligible individuals between the ages of 16 and 75, weighing 50kg or more, in good general health, and leading a safe sexual lifestyle, are encouraged to donate.

To find more information or locate your nearest blood donation clinic, please visit the WCBS website at www.wcbs.org.za, download the WCBS App, or send a WhatsApp message to 060 549 7244. The need for blood is urgent, and your contribution can make a lifesaving difference for patients in need. Act now and become a hero by donating blood.

Source: Knysnaplettherald
Article Rewritten