Australian Red Cross Lifeblood urgently calls for donors as reserves of most blood types reach critical levels.
Without a substantial increase in donations, supplies are projected to hit their lowest point this year. Demand for blood is exceptionally high, surpassing current donation levels.
Although hospitals hold some stock, Lifeblood requires 1,200 donors daily in the upcoming week to adequately support patients.
The demand for blood and plasma, crucial for treating life-threatening conditions, continues to rise annually, with no signs of abating.
Cath Stone, Lifeblood’s Executive Director of Donor Experience, urges both new and long-time donors to contribute immediately.
“Right now, we need both blood and plasma donors; we have empty chairs across our network every single day,” she said.
“Almost 4,000 bags of blood are needed by hospitals every day across Australia to help patients in times of trauma, major surgery, cancer treatment, pregnancy and for a range of other medical conditions,” Ms Stone said.
Just one donation could save up to three lives.
“With one in three of us needing donated blood in our lifetime, the life you save could be that of a friend or family member, so please don’t wait, book now.”
“Fewer than 3 per cent of the population donate blood regularly, yet more than 58 per cent are eligible to donate. That means there are about 10 million more people who could donate today, but don’t,” she said.
Ms. Stone expressed the likelihood of continuous blood appeals throughout the winter. Lifeblood aims for blood donation to become a regular habit for a broader spectrum of Australians, rather than something undertaken only in times of urgent necessity.
“If you’ve been waiting for the right time to become a donor or have been thinking about coming back to donate, this is the time to act,” she said.
Ms. Stone also urged individuals not to disqualify themselves, as many potential donors mistakenly assume they are ineligible.
“If you’re unsure, you can jump on the Lifeblood website and take the eligibility quiz. And if you don’t know your blood type, please make an appointment, as people of all blood types are needed right now,” she said.
To book and appointment, click here.
State breakdown of additional donors needed from May 20 – 26 2024:
NATIONAL: 8,000
VIC: 3,600
NSW: 2,500
QLD: 1,000
WA: 600
SA: 200
NT: 70
TAS: 50
ACT: 30
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