Mumbai is facing a severe blood shortage around Diwali, as blood banks struggle to meet the demand for blood donations. Hospitals like KEM, JJ, BYL Nair, and RN Cooper are experiencing critical shortages, with approximately 750 units of blood needed per day in the city. This shortage is particularly challenging for children with thalassemia, who require regular red blood cell transfusions.
The demand for blood components like red blood cells (RBCs) and platelets remains high throughout the year. RBCs are crucial for patients undergoing major surgeries, while platelets have a short shelf life of only five to seven days. To address this seasonal shortfall, Mumbaikars are encouraged to voluntarily donate blood at local blood centers or organize donation drives in their communities.
Vinay Shetty from Think Foundation, an NGO working in the blood donation field, emphasizes the importance of addressing the blood shortage. He highlights the simple process of organizing a blood donation camp, with the main requirements being a location for the camp and willing participants. It’s crucial to ensure a sufficient number of donors attend these camps to meet the demand for blood.
Doctors recommend going to standalone blood centers for donations, as they serve the entire city and can address the shortage more effectively. Eligibility criteria for blood donation include age between 18 to 65 years, healthy haemoglobin levels, and a suitable body mass index. Smokers can donate blood but should avoid smoking before and after donation, while alcohol consumption should be avoided for at least 24 hours prior to donation.
Individuals with tattoos are eligible to donate blood but must wait six months after getting a tattoo to ensure they are free of infections or blood-borne diseases. There are 90 blood centers and hospitals in Mumbai that regularly accept blood donations, including JJ Mahanagar Blood Bank, KEM Hospital, BYL Nair Hospital, and others. The State Blood Transfusion Council can be reached for more information on blood donation.
By actively participating in blood donation drives and spreading awareness about the importance of voluntary donations, individuals in Mumbai can help address the critical blood shortage during the festive season. Your contribution can make a significant difference in saving lives and ensuring that patients receive the essential blood components they need for medical treatment. Let’s come together as a community to support our local blood banks and hospitals during this challenging time.
