The World Health Organization has called on voluntary blood donors across Pakistan to donate blood, warning that the country faces an annual shortage of 2.3 million blood donations. The appeal was made on World Blood Donor Day, observed on 14 June, to highlight the urgent need for safe, regular and voluntary blood donation.
According to WHO, Pakistan’s medical facilities require more than 5 million blood donations each year, but currently receive only around 2.7 million donations annually. This gap limits the ability of hospitals and health workers to provide lifesaving care to patients in need of urgent blood transfusions.
WHO noted that only 18% of blood donations in Pakistan are voluntary and non-remunerated, while 82% come from family or replacement donors. The organization emphasized that increasing voluntary blood donation is essential to building a safer, more reliable and equitable blood supply system.
This year’s World Blood Donor Day campaign, held under the slogan “One Drop of Humanity. Give Blood. Save Lives,” highlights the humanitarian value of blood donation. WHO also reminded the public that, thanks to medical science, a single blood donation can save up to three lives.
WHO Representative in Pakistan Dr Luo Dapeng paid tribute to voluntary blood donors, describing them as public health heroes whose generosity saves lives every day. He stressed that no patient, mother, child or family member should die because of lack of access to blood.
Blood transfusions are essential for treating pregnancy-related bleeding, severe childhood anemia, bleeding disorders, infectious diseases, cancers and chronic health conditions. They are also critical for surgeries, emergency care, disasters, conflicts and lifelong treatment for conditions such as thalassemia, hemophilia, sickle-cell disease and immune disorders.
WHO urged governments and health authorities to invest in stronger blood systems that promote voluntary donation, safe transfusion practices and equitable access. The organization reaffirmed its support for Pakistan’s health workforce and blood banks to improve screening methods, strengthen protocols and ensure safe and adequate blood supplies for all.
