Dr Shirish Khedgikar World Blood Donor Day is celebrated on June 14, every year. For this year, the slogan declared by WHO is "Give Blood and Keep the World Beating." This message highlights the contribution of voluntary blood donors in keeping the world pulsating by saving lives of others. This day provides the opportunity to raise awareness about the need of safe blood and blood products for transfusion. The contribution done by the unpaid voluntary blood donors can be appreciated on this day. In May 2005, World Health Assembly designated June 14, birthday of Karl Landsteiner, Nobel Prize Winner of 1930, as World Blood Donor Day. The discovery of blood groups by him led to successful blood transfusions between people with compatible blood groups. Transfusing safe blood and blood products save millions of lives and improves health of many patients every day. The need of blood is universal. Throughout COVID-19 pandemic, donors donated blood and plasma despite limited mobility and many hurdles. Crucial role of blood donors in normal and emergency times needs appreciation. Activities like blood donation camps promote the community solidarity and social cohesion. They always inspire enthusiastic youth. Traumatic injury cases, surgical patients, cases of bone marrow and blood disorders, pregnant women, anaemic mothers and malnourished children need blood transfusion. Every few seconds, someone somewhere needs blood. Hence, safe and urgent blood service is a key component of an effective health system. WHO recommends formation of 'National Blood Policy' and well-organised, integrated blood supply network by blood banks, for safe and easy transfusions. Regular voluntary blood donations are needed for quality-assured blood and blood products.
(Writer is Associate Professor at Government Dental College and Hospital, Aurangabad)