‘Immediate need’ for blood and plasma donors after winter storms lead to shortage

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Canadian Blood Services issued an urgent appeal on Tuesday as blood and plasma donations dropped by around 1,500 due to dangerous winter weather conditions in many parts of the country.

The organization said the shortfall represents about 10% of expected collections and that more winter conditions in the coming weeks could threaten the national blood supply.

“Several blood types remain well below optimum,” Canadian Blood Services said in a news release Tuesday, highlighting a critical need for O-negative blood, the universal type.

The huge ‘weather bomb’ that created challenges, winter warnings and advisories across the country has forced people to stay home. The result led to many cancellations of potential donations.

“Weather presents significant challenges to our redistribution opportunities, making balancing national inventory a challenge,” said Rick Prinzen, Canadian Blood Services’ supply chain manager and vice president of Donor Relations, in the press release. “We urge donors from all communities in Canada, who can safely travel to a Canadian Blood Services donation center, to schedule an appointment as soon as possible to help restore and increase the blood supply. blood and plasma of patients.

The organization said it had to cancel “many” collection events since December 20 due to bad weather, which further reduced the blood supply.

It comes as the blood supply has shrunk by more than 35% since the start of October. According to Canadian Blood Services, there is an inventory for most blood for three to four days. Ideally, the organization wants a five to eight day supply.

A stable inventory is essential because blood and plasma have a short shelf life. Frozen plasma can last a year, red blood cells last 42 days, and platelets can only last a week.

“The need for platelets is pressing and ongoing for patients with severe bleeding or those undergoing cancer treatments,” the press release said.

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization said there had been a drop of 31,000 regular donors. Between 400,000 and 425,000 Canadians donate blood regularly.

Although 6 in 10 eligible donors think donating blood or plasma is important, only 10% plan to donate by December 31, an Ipsos survey found on December 16.

In the aftermath of storms, we often hear stories of people across Canada offering to help others clear snow or providing blankets and clothing to those staying in shelters. Remember, donating blood or plasma to meet patient needs is another way we give a part of ourselves to help others, Prinzen said.

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