The end of year festivities and the school holidays in January directly affect the number of blood donations. According to calculations by the Arthur de Siqueira Cavalcanti State Institute of Hematology in Rio de Janeiro (Hemorio), the reduction is around 10% to 15%.
This is a major concern for Hemorio, which operates in the center of the capital, because there tends to be a higher volume of accidents at this time.
“Precisely during this period, demand grows, because people travel and leave home more, which, unfortunately, increases the number of accidents. Therefore, it is important that people come and donate”, appeals Hemorio social worker Ana Ester Carlos.
The unit is the second largest blood center in Brazil and is ahead in the number of voluntary donors. The organization reported that it receives between 250 and 300 people to donate per day and from January to November this year, there were more than 82 thousand donations. The forecast is to conclude 2024 with at least 92 thousand donations.
“Each donation can save up to four lives”, highlights the social worker.
Hemorio’s stocks supply the blood banks of 130 public and private health units affiliated with the SUS in the 92 municipalities of the state of Rio de Janeiro. With the quantity below what is necessary, the agency warns of the serious consequences that may occur.
“Patient treatments can be compromised, and elective surgeries can be postponed when blood is not available. Furthermore, the health status of hospitalized patients who are already stable may worsen. Therefore, we really need donations”, warns Ana Ester.
Hemorio was founded in 1943 and became a reference in blood donation in Brazil. It is also the hospital that treats the most patients with sickle cell disease in the world.
Requirements
To be a donor you must be between 16 and 69 years of age, be in good health, weigh more than 50 kg and not drink alcohol in the 12 hours before donating. It is not necessary to fast, but fatty foods should be avoided before donating.
“It is mandatory to present an official document with a photo, such as an identity card, driver’s license or passport. Minors under 18 must present a Consent Form signed by their parents or legal guardian”, recommends the unit.
Anyone who wants additional information about donations can access Dial Sangue, on the phone (21) 3916-8310, or Hemorio’s social networks, which will be open for donations every day this year-end, except January 1st.
