How often is blood really needed?
Blood is needed every day, not only in disasters or big accidents. Common ongoing needs include:
· Children with thalassemia or sickle cell disease who need regular transfusions.
· Cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.
· Surgical and ICU patients.
· Pregnant women with severe anemia or heavy bleeding.
Hospitals must keep enough blood in stock before emergencies happen. This is only possible when there is a steady stream of voluntary donors, not just people responding during crises.