Every year on June 14, the world celebrates World Blood Donor Day, a date designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) to raise awareness of the importance of blood donation and to thank those who, selflessly, contribute to saving lives through this act of solidarity. This day also serves to foster a deeper understanding of the need to have safe blood available at all times.
Origin of the commemoration
The idea of establishing an international day dedicated to blood donors was first proposed in 2004 by four main organisations: the World Health Organisation (WHO), the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), the International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT) and the International Federation of Blood Donor Organisations (IFDO). The date of 14 June was chosen in honour of the birth of Karl Landsteiner, an Austrian immunologist who discovered the ABO blood groups in 1901, a fundamental discovery for modern medicine.
Importance of blood donation
Saving lives
Blood is a vital resource that cannot be replaced by any synthetic product. Every year, millions of people depend on transfusions to survive. These may be necessary for:
Patients undergoing complex surgeries.
People with illnesses such as severe anemia or cancer.
Victims of accidents or disasters.
Women with complications during pregnancy or childbirth.
Medical and social benefits
In addition to saving lives, regular donations ensure that health systems have sufficient reserves in emergencies and crisis situations, such as pandemics or natural disasters. This contributes to social stability and strengthens the ability to respond to unforeseen events.
The donor profile
Requirements for donating
Although criteria may vary by country, donors are generally required to:
Be of legal age (between 18 and 65 years old).
Enjoy good health.
Weigh at least 50 kg.
They do not have a history of infectious diseases transmitted by blood.
Before each donation, a medical evaluation is performed to ensure the safety of both the donor and the recipient.
Types of donors
There are different types of donation, including:
Voluntary and altruistic donation: This is the ideal way, since people donate without expecting anything in return.
Directed donation: When blood is collected specifically for a designated patient.
Paid donation: Although this practice is discouraged by the WHO due to ethical and safety concerns.
Challenges in blood supply
Low donation rate
In many countries, the donation rate is insufficient to meet demand. According to the WHO, only 62% of countries meet the target of at least 10 donations per 1,000 inhabitants.
Global inequality
The distribution of blood resources is uneven. In low- and middle-income countries, blood banks often face chronic shortages, putting the lives of millions of people at risk.
Stigmas and myths
Many potential donors refrain from giving blood due to erroneous beliefs, such as fear of contracting diseases during the extraction process or the idea that donating blood weakens the body.
Awareness campaigns
Effective strategies
Campaigns to promote donation often include:
Testimonials from patients and donors.
Community events and donation days.
Using social media to reach a wider audience.
Success story
In Chile, for example, the Ministry of Health has implemented initiatives such as "Blood Heroes," a national campaign to encourage voluntary and repeated donation. Thanks to these actions, a gradual increase in the donation rate has been achieved.
Innovations in the field of donation
Technological advances
Science has developed more efficient methods for collecting, storing and analyzing blood. Innovations include:
Automated donation systems that separate specific components, such as platelets or plasma.
Virtual blood banks that connect donors with hospitals in real time.
Research into artificial blood
Although still in the experimental stages, artificial blood could revolutionize the medical field, offering an alternative solution in situations of shortage.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic
The global health crisis of 2020 put health systems, including blood banks, to the test. During this period, many donation campaigns were cancelled due to restrictions, leading to a significant decrease in stocks. However, a global solidarity movement also emerged, with volunteers braving the circumstances to donate blood.
How to get involved?
Regular donation
The most direct way to contribute is by becoming a regular donor. This simple act can make the difference between life and death for those in need.
Volunteering
Blood banks also need logistical and administrative support. Volunteering is another valuable way to contribute to the cause.
Education and dissemination
Educating others about the importance of donation and debunking myths can also have a positive impact. Organizing talks, sharing information on social media, or collaborating with educational institutions are all effective strategies.
World Blood Donor Day is not only an opportunity to thank those who save lives through their generosity, but also a reminder that we can all contribute to building a more supportive and efficient health system. Donating blood is an act of love and humanity that transcends borders and cultures. By reflecting on the impact of this gesture, we are moving closer to a world where every person's life counts.