New Delhi, 13 June (IANS). On the eve of World Blood Donation Day, the regional director of South-East Asia, the World Health Organization, said on Friday that blood donation is the basis of effective healthcare and emergency response.
World Blood Donation Day is celebrated every year on 14 June. This year’s theme is, “Donate blood, hope: Together we save lives”.
On this day, those who donate blood are honored, who save countless lives every day through their blood donation.
Vajed said that the availability of blood is necessary for a strong health system. But, especially in lower and medium -income countries, many people do not get safe blood on time.
He said, “Blood donation is an important part of healthcare. Mothers facing complications during delivery, children suffering from serious anemia, patients undergoing surgery or blood life saving for people suffering from blood disorders like Thalassemia, Hemophilia and Sickle-cell disease.”
He said that the timely availability of safe blood in emergency like natural disasters or conflict can be the difference between life and death.
Vajed said that only a strong base of blood donation and coordinated system at the national level can ensure the availability of safe blood.
Saima Vajed reported that about half of the countries in Southeast Asia have formed a system where all blood comes from voluntary (without money) blood donation. 82 percent of the blood in this area comes from those who donate blood on their own free will. This shows how excited and active people are to help their society.
Saima Vajed reported that all blood collected in the South-East Asia region is used only after examining infectious diseases (such as HIV, hepatitis), so that it remains safe. He appealed to governments and health officials to further strengthen blood donation programs.
Vajed said, “Remember on World Blood Donation Day 2025, blood donation is not just a medical process. It is a symbol of mercy, responsibility and hope. It is a life saving for an unknown person, who never meets the donor, but his life changes forever.”
-IANS
MT/Ekde
