National blood stocks at critically low level

THE county is fast running out of blood – this is according to the South African National Blood Services (SANBS).

SANBS national marketing manager Silungile Mlambo said the country’s blood stocks were not performing well.

“The blood stock in the country is dangerously low. Blood supply in South Africa is at just 1.8 days of Group O stock, equating to fewer than 2 000 units, and donors are urgently needed to come forward. This is low compared with a healthy blood stock of 5 000 units or five days’ stock,” Mlambo said.

“The situation is reaching a critical level and we appeal to all South Africans – active donors, lapsed donors and potential donors – to donate blood to bolster the national blood stock.”

Mlambo said blood was critical for cancer patients and women in childbirth – who constitute the two big groups of people requiring blood transfusions.

“And that’s the point, it’s not just blood. It’s saving people’s lives, through a simple, easy donation.”

Mlambo appealed to South Africans to become regular donors.

“By donating blood only four times a year, we can easily avoid situations such as the one in which we find ourselves,” Mlambo said.

To find out more about donating blood and to locate your nearest donor centre, visit or call 0800-119-031. —