By Fabiana McKlmon
The Ministry of Health’s National Blood Transfusion Services hosted a ceremony at Marian Academy to commemorate World Blood Donor Day 2024.
This year’s theme, “20 years of celebrating giving: thank you blood donors,” highlights the importance of blood donations and acknowledges the contributions of frequent donors and organizations involved in donation drives over the years.
Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony praised the Blood Transfusion Unit for achieving its highest number of donations last year.
He emphasized the Ministry’s efforts to expand blood banking centers through decentralization to meet the increasing surgical capacity across the country.
Dr. Anthony stressed the importance of having blood available in various regions to support medical needs.
He explained that the Ministry is building up surgical capacity and corresponding blood banking facilities to ensure that blood is available when needed.
Dr. Anthony also urged citizens to recognize the significant impact of blood donation on society.
He highlighted the need for a change in attitude towards blood donation, encouraging everyone who can donate to do so, emphasizing the expectation of relying on others’ donations during illness and the importance of contributing when healthy.
Additionally, Dr. Anthony noted that with the intervention of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) last year, the Ministry made significant advances in the treatment of patients with hepatitis C.
More than 100 patients have been enrolled in the HepC Clinic, with over 50 cured.