“To address this demand and given the decrease in blood reserves, particularly of type O+, we urge all healthy individuals to contribute with their donation for the well-being and health of the thousands of patients who need it,” stated the president of FEPODABES in a press release.
Alberto Mota emphasizes that the need for blood is a constant in hospitals, as cancer patients, those undergoing various surgeries, or accident victims frequently require blood transfusions.
“Unfortunately, fewer people are donating, and regular donors belong to generations that are aging and can no longer donate after the age of 65, which makes it a daily struggle to encourage younger people to donate blood,” he said.
The Federation reminds that the blood collection process is quick (around 30 minutes) and can save several lives since a single unit of blood can help up to three people.
“All citizens over 18 years, weighing more than 50kg, and in good health can donate blood. This simple gesture contributes to saving many lives,” appeals Alberto Mota.
According to a report by the Portuguese Institute of Blood and Transplantation (IPST) from November, Portugal recorded a further decrease in blood donors in 2024, totaling almost 10,000 fewer compared to 2017, returning to levels close to the pre-pandemic period.
