SANBS warns of critical blood shortage as stocks fall to 2.4 days
SANBS says blood reserves have fallen critically low and is urging eligible South Africans to donate across all blood groups.
South Africa is grappling with a severe blood shortage, with the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) holding only enough stock for 2.4 days. Clinical supervisor Kristen Govender emphasized the need for a seven-day supply to be considered comfortable, but they currently fall short. The crisis stems from a lack of regular blood donations, with fewer than 1% of South Africans actively donating blood.
This scarcity places hospitals in a challenging position, as they require blood daily for surgeries, accident victims, childbirth, cancer treatments, and for children with anaemia. SANBS must collect 3,000 units of blood daily to maintain a safe and adequate supply, but this target is often unmet. The organization aims to keep five days' worth of blood on hand to ensure timely patient care.
However, at present, some areas only have a three-day supply, jeopardizing the lives of those in need. Govender further explained that a single unit of blood, which lasts only 42 days post-donation, must be processed and distributed within weeks. Each unit can potentially save up to three lives due to its separation into red blood cells, plasma, and platelets, each serving distinct patient needs.
While this blood shortage isn't entirely new, the current levels are alarmingly low. If the situation worsens, hospitals could face significant challenges in providing necessary transfusions to patients.
Written by urgent.news from IOL's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
