ISLAMABAD: Health experts on World Blood Donor Day urged healthy people to donate blood voluntarily as a single drop of blood can save precious lives.
WHO Advisor on Blood Safety Prof. Dr. Hasan Abbas Zaheer, talking to the state news channel, said that blood donation awareness was essential to encourage people to come forward to support people in need.
He urged the young generation to participate in this pious deed through special camps to ensure adequate availability of blood in local healthcare centers. “Youth should actively participate in awareness campaigns through social media platforms for safeguarding humanity,” he added.
He said that while blood transfusions can save lives and enhance health, many patients who need them do not have prompt access to safe blood. He continued by saying that every nation’s infrastructure and national health care policy should include providing safe and sufficient blood.
Replying to a question, he recommends that all blood donations be screened for infections before use, and screening for HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and syphilis should be mandatory.
In addition to thanking all blood donors globally and promoting the importance of regular blood donation, Dr. Hasan stressed that blood screening should be carried out per quality system requirements. Encouraging others to donate blood frequently and without compensation, he said. He concluded that involving young people in global issues is crucial to advancing everyone’s health. —APP
