Here's a summarized version of the provided text in bullet points for a presenta7on:

1. Introduc,on
• WHO aims to improve transfusion services worldwide, especially in low- and
middle-income countries (LMICs).
• This report focuses on the status of voluntary blood dona7on and related
ac7vi7es in the WHO South-East Asia Region, based on 2018 data.
• The goal is to collect data on na7onal blood systems, iden7fy gaps, and
opportuni7es for improvement in voluntary blood dona7ons.

2. Global Blood Collec,on Overview (2018)

• A total of 118.5 million blood dona7ons occurred in 171 countries.
• Breakdown: 106.1 million whole blood dona7ons and 12.4 million apheresis
dona7ons.
• Dona7ons sourced from voluntary non-remunerated, family or replacement, and
paid donors.

2.1. Blood Dona,on Rates Worldwide

• Blood availability varied by WHO region and World Bank Income group.
• Europe had the highest collec7on (30.7 million), followed by Western Pacific
(26.3 million), Americas (24.1 million), and South-East Asia (22.3 million).

2.2. Distribu,on by Development Index

• High-income countries had a whole blood dona7on rate of 31.5 dona7ons per
1000 popula7on.
• High-income countries' dona7ons represented 40% of dona7ons but only 16% of
the global popula7on.
• Low-income countries contributed 2% of dona7ons but represented 8% of the
global popula7on.
• Upper-middle-income countries had similar distribu7ons (34% of dona7ons and
36% of popula7on).

2.3. Blood Collec,on in South-East Asia Region

• South-East Asia Region contributed 22.3 million blood dona7ons, about 26% of
the global popula7on.
• Of these, 21.6 million were whole blood dona7ons, and 0.7 million were
apheresis dona7ons.
• Blood dona7ons represented 19% of the region's popula7on, while its popula7on
made up 26% of the global total.
• A gap between popula7on and dona7ons highlights the need for awareness and
voluntary dona7on programs in this region.

Assessment of the Need, Demand, and Use of Blood:

• The World Health Organiza7on (WHO) dis7nguishes between the need, demand,
and use of blood:
• Need: An es7ma7on of the amount of blood required to meet the transfusion
needs of the pa7ent popula7on based on current policies, clinical guidelines, and best
prac7ces.
• Demand: The amount of blood that would be transfused if all prescribed blood
transfusions were fulfilled.
• Use: The actual amount of blood that is currently being transfused.
• Various factors influence blood requirements to meet healthcare needs,
including:
• i. Income levels,
• ii. Current status and rate of development of the healthcare system,
• iii. Accessibility of healthcare facili7es to the public.

PaRern of Blood Usage Worldwide:

• Significant differences are observed in the pacern of blood usage among high-,
middle-, and low-income countries.
• In high-income countries, blood transfusions are mainly used for:
• Suppor7ve care in cardiovascular and transplant surgery,
• Trea7ng massive trauma,
• Therapy for solid and hematological malignancies.
• In low- and middle-income countries, blood transfusions are primarily used for:
• Trea7ng pregnancy-related complica7ons,
• Managing severe childhood anemia.
• In high-income countries, pa7ents aged over 60 years are most frequently
transfused, accoun7ng for up to 76% of all transfusions.
• In low-income countries, up to 54% of transfusions are for children under 5 years
of age, followed by women aged between 15 and 45 years.
• Data from low-income countries in 2018 showed that children and women
received the most frequent transfusions in various clinical departments in hospitals and
other healthcare facili7es.
• According to the latest Global status report of blood safety and availability in
2021, which compiled responses from 10 out of the 11 Member countries of the South-
East Asia Region:
• All Member countries reported having na7onal legisla7on for blood transfusion
services.
• 80% of countries reported having a na7onal blood policy and a mul7-year
strategic plan for blood safety in 2018.
• In the 2018 report on Blood transfusion services in the South-East Asia Region,
the following informa7on was provided:
• Na7onal blood policies had been formulated in 10 out of 11 countries (90.9%).
• Nine out of 11 countries (81.8%) had a unit within the Ministry of Health or
another government department responsible for governing all ac7vi7es related to the
provision of blood and blood products.
• Specific legisla7on covering the safety and quality of blood for transfusion was
reported in seven out of 11 countries (63.6%).
• Six out of 11 countries (54.5%) had a mul7-year na7onal strategic plan for blood
safety.
• Six countries (54.5%) out of the 11 had cons7tuted a na7onal blood commicee to
assist the Ministry of Health in policy formula7on, planning, sefng standards, and
providing advice on key issues.
• Ten out of 11 countries (90.9%) had a na7onal blood transfusion service.

• Importance of Human Resources: Trained and dedicated human resources are

essen7al for the development and improvement of blood transfusion prac7ces globally.
The field of transfusion medicine has seen significant advancements due to the presence
of qualified professionals.
• Professional Socie,es: Organiza7ons like the Interna7onal Society of Blood
Transfusion (ISBT) and the Associa7on for the Advancement of Blood and Biotherapies
(AABB) have played a vital role in knowledge-sharing and promo7ng evidence-based
prac7ces in transfusion medicine.
• Training Programs in Transfusion Medicine: In Western countries, transfusion
medicine is typically pursued as a post-specializa7on fellowship ager specializa7on in
Clinical Pathology, Hematology, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Surgery, or
Anesthesiology. These programs cover various aspects of transfusion medicine,
including blood banking, immunohematology, apheresis, cell therapy, coagula7on, and
hematology.
• Recogni,on of Transfusion Medicine in India: In India, transfusion medicine was
recognized as an independent specialty, and MD programs in Immunohematology &
Blood Transfusion or Transfusion Medicine were ini7ated in two na7onal ins7tutes by
the year 2000. Currently, 60 medical ins7tutes in India offer these MD programs, and
graduates are heading many blood centers across the country, enhancing the quality of
services.
• Training of Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs): MLTs with diplomas or
bachelor's degrees are trained in various laboratory procedures, including
immunohematology and component prepara7on. Ager six months of training, they are
eligible to work in a blood center. Six ins7tu7ons in India now offer dedicated bachelor's
and master's courses (BSc and MSc in Blood Transfusion Technology) to provide well-
trained human resources to blood centers.
• Nursing Training: Nursing students also receive training in blood centers as part
of their bachelor's degree in nursing (BSc Nursing), and dedicated training programs in
transfusion medicine for nursing professionals are in development.
• Training Programs in Repor,ng Countries: All the repor7ng countries in the
survey (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Indonesia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand) have
graduate/postgraduate/MD Transfusion Medicine/Immunohematology training
programs.
• VNRD Liaison Officers (VNRDLOs): Dedicated VNRDLOs play a crucial role in
promo7ng voluntary non-remunerated blood dona7on (VNRD) in the region. However,
as per the report, only Thailand and Sri Lanka have VNRDLOs, and they undergo regular
training conducted by their respec7ve na7onal blood transfusion agencies.

• Global Training and Educa,on Sharing: In the modern world, which is ogen
referred to as a global village, training and educa7on can be shared among countries.
Online training and webinars have made it easier for individuals to access educa7on and
training opportuni7es. Professional socie7es like the Asian Associa7on of Transfusion
Medicine (AATM) can sponsor candidates for hands-on training in developed countries,
offering valuable educa7onal opportuni7es.
• Centraliza,on of Blood Transfusion Services (BTS): Centralizing blood
transfusion services can help address the gaps in human resource availability.
Centraliza7on can lead to more efficient and effec7ve u7liza7on of trained human
resources. Sri Lanka is cited as an example of a country that has successfully
demonstrated this approach in recent 7mes.
• Job Opportuni,es for Specialized Professionals: Professionals with specialized
knowledge and skills in the field of Transfusion Medicine, par7cularly in therapeu7c
apheresis and cellular therapies, have excellent job opportuni7es available to them in
various parts of the world. This specializa7on opens up career prospects and allows
professionals to contribute to the field on a global scale.
These opportuni7es reflect the poten7al for collabora7on, training, centraliza7on, and
career advancement within the field of blood transfusion services in the South-East Asia
Region and beyond.

Donor recruitment and reten,on strategies

• Defini,on of Voluntary Non-Remunerated Blood Donor (VNRD): A VNRD gives

blood, plasma, or cellular components willingly and without receiving any form of
payment, either in cash or in kind, that could be considered a subs7tute for money.
Small tokens, refreshments, and reimbursements of direct travel costs are compa7ble
with voluntary, non-remunerated dona7on.
• Types of Blood Donors: Various interna7onal and na7onal organiza7ons,
including WHO, IFRC, CoE, ISBT, AABB, and others, emphasize the importance of VNRDs
in ensuring safe and sustainable blood supplies. There are three primary types of blood
donors:
• Voluntary Blood Donors: Individuals who donate blood willingly
without any form of payment.
• Family/Replacement Donors: These donors provide blood when a
member of their family or community requires transfusion. In some cases, hospitals
request rela7ves to donate blood, while in other situa7ons, pa7ents may be required to
provide a specified number of replacement donors. Although these donors are not paid
by the blood transfusion service or hospital, there may be a hidden system where
pa7ents' families provide compensa7on.
• Paid Donors (Commercial Donors): These donors donate blood in
exchange for payment or other benefits that fulfill a basic need or can be converted into
cash. They may have contractual agreements with blood banks to supply blood for a fee
or sell their blood to mul7ple blood banks. They may also pose as family/replacement
donors to sell their services.
These dis7nc7ons help in understanding the different mo7va7ons and prac7ces
associated with various types of blood donors, which is crucial for donor recruitment
and reten7on strategies.

• Origins of Safe Blood Donor Concept: The concept of a safe blood donor has
been present since the incep7on of the "mobile donor service" at the Bri7sh Red Cross
Blood Transfusion Service in 1921. During this service, blood grouping and syphilis
tes7ng were performed for the panel of donors included.
• Regular Repeat Donors: Regular repeat donors are considered the safest blood
donors for several reasons:
• They are screened for markers of transfusion-transmissible infec7ons (TTIs)
repeatedly over 7me, during each blood dona7on. This frequent screening reduces the
likelihood of donors being in the "window period" of TTIs, where infec7ons may not yet
be detectable.
• Studies have shown that regular repeat donors have a lower prevalence of TTIs,
such as an7bodies to HIV-1 and/or 2, an7bodies to hepa77s C virus (HCV), and surface
an7gen of hepa77s B virus (HBsAg), compared to replacement first-7me donors.
• Regular blood donors are typically well-informed about the tes7ng procedures
for TTIs conducted by blood centers. They also have a greater awareness of the risk
factors associated with TTIs, thanks to the repeated pre-dona7on counseling they
receive over the donor cycle.
This informa7on highlights the cri7cal role played by regular repeat donors in ensuring
the safety of the blood supply and reducing the risk of TTIs. Their awareness,
commitment, and consistent screening contribute to a safer blood dona7on process.

Conversion of first-,me donor to regular repeat donor – strategies

• Inform the Donor about the Recipients: Let the blood donor know
where their blood and blood components are being transfused. This creates a sense of
purpose and connec7on for the donor.
• Appeal for Repeat Dona,ons: Encourage the donor to become a
repeat donor by emphasizing the importance of dona7ng regularly. Ignite the passion
for regular blood dona7on.
• Highlight Impact: Share stories of the posi7ve impact of blood
transfusion, such as the success stories of regular blood transfusion in trea7ng
condi7ons like thalassemia. Demonstra7ng the real-world impact of dona7ons can
mo7vate donors.
• Show Apprecia,on: Express apprecia7on and gra7tude to the
blood donor. Thank the donor at least three 7mes during the blood dona7on process.
Use various communica7on channels such as SMS, WhatsApp, emails, and social media
planorms like Twicer, Facebook, and Instagram to follow up with thanks.
• Request Future Dona,ons: Ask for the next blood dona7on using
the aforemen7oned communica7on channels. Encourage donors to schedule their next
dona7on.
• Convenient Dona,on: Make it convenient for donors to donate by
reaching out to their workplaces or homes. Conduct outdoor blood dona7on drives in
collabora7on with resident welfare associa7ons, market welfare associa7ons, and
religious organiza7ons, where donors are likely to par7cipate during their free 7me.
• Minimize Wai,ng Time: Reduce donor wai7ng 7mes as much as
possible to make the dona7on process efficient and comfortable.
• Address Donor Adverse Reac,ons: Address any adverse reac7ons
experienced by donors promptly and professionally to ensure their well-being.
• Manage Donor Anxiety: Provide audio-visual engagement or other
distrac7ons to reduce donor anxiety during the dona7on process.
• Donor Deferral Management: Explain the reasons for donor
deferral and encourage the re-induc7on of temporarily deferred donors ager the
wai7ng period has passed.
• Enhance Personal Connec,on: Foster a strong personal connec7on
between donors and the service staff. A posi7ve donor experience can encourage
con7nued par7cipa7on.
These strategies aim to not only recruit new blood donors but also retain them as
regular donors. By focusing on donor engagement, convenience, and apprecia7on,
blood dona7on centers can create a suppor7ve environment that encourages ongoing
par7cipa7on in blood dona7on programs.

Current status of donor types in the WHO SouthEast Asia Region

The current status of blood collec7on and the propor7on of Voluntary Non-
Remunerated Donors (VNRDs) in the 11 Member countries of the South-East Asia
Region is as follows:
• Eight out of the 11 Member States have more than 75% voluntary blood
dona7on.
• The Democra7c People’s Republic of Korea, Sri Lanka, and Thailand have
achieved a remarkable 100% blood supply from VNRDs.
• However, three countries, namely Maldives, Bangladesh, and Timor-Leste, have
less than 50% VNRDs, indica7ng a greater reliance on other types of donors.
This data suggests that a significant por7on of blood collec7on in the South-East Asia
Region comes from voluntary donors, reflec7ng a posi7ve trend toward safe and
sustainable blood supplies in many countries within the region. However, there is s7ll
room for improvement in those countries where the propor7on of VNRDs is rela7vely
low. Efforts to encourage voluntary non-remunerated blood dona7on and raise
awareness about its importance could further strengthen blood transfusion services in
these countries.

The current status of donor types and demographic characteris7cs in the South-East
Asia Region is as follows:
• Donor Types:
• Sri Lanka is the only country in the region that relies en7rely on voluntary blood
dona7on, except for autologous dona7ons.
• Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, India, Indonesia, and Thailand report the prac7ce of
replacement, family, and directed blood donor systems.
• The paid donor system is not in prac7ce in any of the countries, which is a
posi7ve measure for blood safety.
• Gender of Blood Donors:
• There is significant varia7on in the gender distribu7on of blood donors across
Member States.
• Bangladesh and India have a male predominance of blood donors, with a ra7o of
95% males to 5% females.
• The gender distribu7on becomes more balanced in Indonesia, Nepal, and Sri
Lanka, with a ra7o of approximately 70% males to 30% females.
• In Bhutan, the gender distribu7on is close to 60% males to 40% females.
• Thailand stands out with a female preponderance of donors, where the
propor7on of female to male blood donors is 56% versus 46%.
• Age Criteria for Blood Dona,on:
• Different countries in the region have varying age criteria for blood dona7on.
• Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Thailand allow blood dona7on between 18
years and 60 years, with Thailand allowing those aged 17 years with parental consent.
• India and Nepal permit blood dona7on between 18 and 65 years, but in India,
first-7me blood donors can donate only up to the age of 60 years.
• Indonesia allows blood dona7on between 17 years and 65 years.
• Age Distribu,on of Blood Donors:
• All seven par7cipant countries have the highest number of blood donors in the
age group of 21 to 59 years.
• Bhutan, India, and Sri Lanka have more than 20% of blood donors under the age
of 20 years.
• Bangladesh and Nepal have more than 10% of blood donors under the age of 20
years.
• Nepal also has 5% of blood donors above the age of 60 years.
These demographic characteris7cs provide valuable insights into the profile of blood
donors in the South-East Asia Region, indica7ng varia7ons in donor types, gender
distribu7on, and age criteria across different countries. It also highlights the importance
of understanding and targe7ng specific demographics for effec7ve donor recruitment
and reten7on strategies.

Strategies for promo,on of voluntary nonremunerated blood dona,ons

The WHO global framework for ac7on to achieve 100% Voluntary Non-Remunerated
Blood Dona7on (VNRD) encompasses four main goals and a set of 20 well-defined
strategies to promote VNRD and enhance blood dona7on prac7ces:
Goal A: Create an enabling environment for 100% voluntary non-remunerated blood
dona,on
• Advocate for 100% voluntary blood dona7ons.
• Establish a na7onal voluntary blood donor program, which includes several sub-
strategies:
• Incorporate 100% voluntary blood dona7on in the na7onal blood policy and
legisla7ve and ethical framework.
• Secure sustainable financing for the program.
• Provide suitable infrastructure, facili7es, and equipment for blood dona7on.
• Appoint and train an adequate number of staff and volunteers.
• Implement quality systems to ensure safe and effec7ve blood collec7on.
• Establish a na7onal donor database and informa7on management system.
• Develop an emergency preparedness and response plan for blood dona7on.
Strategy 3: Strengthen collabora,on and partnerships to enhance blood dona7on
ini7a7ves.
Goal B: Foster a culture of voluntary blood dona,on
4. Understand your blood donors.
• Iden7fy target blood donor popula7ons.
• Develop communica7on strategies for donor educa7on.
• Build partnerships with the media to raise awareness.
• Mobilize community partners and create networks to promote
voluntary blood dona7on.
• Maximize the impact of World Blood Donor Day and Na7onal Blood
Donor events.
Goal C: Build and maintain a safe, sustainable voluntary donor base
10. Educate, mo7vate, and recruit new blood donors.
• Mobilize youth as a new genera7on of voluntary blood donors.
• Convert eligible replacement donors to voluntary blood donors.
• Recall infrequent, inac7ve, and temporarily deferred blood donors.
• Retain suitable voluntary blood donors.
• Recognize blood donors' contribu7on to society.
Goal D: Provide quality donor service and care
16. Make it convenient for donors to give blood.
• Reach out to donors through mobile sessions.
• Assess donors' suitability to donate blood.
• Provide blood donor counseling.
• Make blood dona7on a safe and pleasant experience.
These strategies collec7vely aim to create an environment where voluntary, non-
remunerated blood dona7on becomes the norm, foster a culture of voluntary blood
dona7on, build a sustainable donor base, and ensure quality service and care for blood
donors. Implemen7ng these strategies can help countries achieve the goal of 100%
VNRD and enhance blood safety and availability.

Donor data management system

Donor data management involves the collec7on, storage, and analysis of informa7on
related to blood donors. It plays a crucial role in maintaining a transparent and efficient
blood dona7on system. There are various types and methods of donor data
management:
• Na,onal Surveys among Blood Centres: This involves conduc7ng
surveys at the na7onal level to collect data from different blood centers and
organiza7ons involved in blood dona7on. These surveys aim to gather informa7on on
donor profiles, dona7on pacerns, and other relevant data.
• Comprehensive Research Data: Donor data can be collected
through comprehensive research studies focused on blood dona7on. These studies may
involve analyzing donor demographics, dona7on frequency, mo7va7ons, and other
factors that influence blood dona7on.
• Data Analysis by Individual Hospitals and Blood Centres: Hospitals
and individual blood centers ogen collect and analyze data specific to their opera7ons.
This data can include donor registra7on informa7on, dona7on history, and tes7ng
results. Analyzing this data helps in managing donor rela7onships and understanding
local donor trends.
• Donor Database Warehouse: A donor database warehouse is a
centralized repository that stores donor-related informa7on from mul7ple sources. It
allows for efficient data management and retrieval, making it easier to maintain
complete donor profiles, track donor behavior, and ensure compliance with tes7ng
standards.
The main applica7ons and advantages of donor data management include maintaining
complete donor profiles, understanding the epidemiology of donors and recipients,
facilita7ng coordina7on between blood centers, adhering to uniform tes7ng standards,
improving blood matching, addressing blood shortage issues, conduc7ng research on
donor and product risk factors, formula7ng and upda7ng donor guidelines, and
designing quality indicators for blood dona7on.
By u7lizing donor data management effec7vely, blood centers and organiza7ons can
enhance their ability to provide safe and sufficient blood products to meet the needs of
pa7ents and improve overall blood transfusion prac7ces.

How donor data are stored and retrieved

Donor data are stored and retrieved using various methods and systems, depending on
the region and the level of organiza7on. Some common approaches to donor data
storage and retrieval include:
• Centralized Donor Databases: In European countries and some
other regions, centralized donor databases or "donor database warehouses" have been
established. These databases link comprehensive data of donors and recipients from
various sources. Individual hospitals and blood banks regularly collect and update data
on donors and transfusion recipients, which is then analyzed at a central level. Examples
include the Dutch Transfusion Data warehouse (DTD) project, Scandinavian Dona7ons
and Transfusions Database (SCANDAT) from Sweden and Denmark, and others.
• Data Collec,on and Valida,on: Donor data are typically collected
and managed by teams of experts, including researchers from the field of transfusion
medicine, data modeling specialists, and informa7on technology professionals. Uniform
data collec7on formats are ogen designed and shared with par7cipa7ng centers to
ensure consistency. Data valida7on processes are put in place to minimize discrepancies
and errors in the collected informa7on.
Centralized vs. Local/Regional Donor Data Management:
The donor data management system can be organized at different levels, each with its
own advantages and disadvantages:
Centralized Na,onal-Level Data Collec,on:
• Advantages:
• Enables centralized collec7on, management, and evalua7on of data.
• Facilitates the formula7on of na7onal-level policies and donor vigilance
programs.
• Consistency in data collec7on and repor7ng.
• U7lizes data from various regional centers for a comprehensive na7onal
perspec7ve.
• Challenges:
• Requires capacity-building in terms of staff training and data management
sogware.
• Addresses data privacy and security concerns.
• Ensures adequate internet connec7vity at all par7cipa7ng centers.
• May face difficul7es in linking data from diverse regional blood centers.
• May not account for regional varia7ons in epidemiology and demography.
Local/Regional-Level or Individual Blood Center Data Management:
• Advantages:
• Data collec7on at a more localized level, easier to manage.
• Promotes staff mo7va7on and awareness.
• Requires fewer resources compared to a na7onal-level system.
• Challenges:
• Data may not be easily extrapolated or applicable at the na7onal level.
• Limited scope for comprehensive na7onal policies.
• Relies on individual center's capacity and resources.
The choice between centralized and local/regional data management depends on the
specific goals and resources of the blood dona7on organiza7on or country, as well as
the need for both local and na7onal-level insights into donor and recipient informa7on.

How has donor data management helped in improving donor recruitment and
reten,on, donor and recipient safety – look-back in case of TTI?

Donor data management plays a crucial role in improving various aspects of blood
dona7on and transfusion systems. Here are some key contribu7ons and benefits of
donor data management:
• Promo,ng Voluntary Blood Dona,on: Donor data management
creates awareness about the importance of voluntary blood dona7on by highligh7ng
the gap between the na7on's blood supply needs and the number of dona7ons
required. This mo7vates voluntary blood donors to ac7vely par7cipate and surpass the
number of replacement dona7ons, which are ogen enrolled through passive
recruitment ac7vi7es.
• Strengthening Recruitment and Reten,on Strategies: Donor data
management provides valuable insights into the donor popula7on's epidemiology. This
informa7on helps in designing and implemen7ng effec7ve donor recruitment and
reten7on strategies. It assists in dissemina7ng informa7on about blood dona7on,
conduc7ng training for blood donor recruiters, and ini7a7ng donor apprecia7on
programs.
• Monitoring the Transfusion Chain: Donor data management helps
in monitoring the en7re transfusion chain, from donor recruitment to recipient
outcomes. This comprehensive view allows for becer management of blood resources
and ensures the safety of both donors and recipients.
• Research Data: Donor data can be a valuable source for research
across the transfusion chain. It helps in studying various aspects of blood dona7on and
transfusion, leading to evidence-based prac7ces and policies.
• Government Sensi,za,on: Centralized donor management systems
can raise awareness among government authori7es about blood donor-related issues.
This awareness can result in increased governmental investment in blood management
and infrastructure.
• Iden,fying Challenges: Donor data analysis can reveal challenges in
donor recruitment and reten7on. For example, it can iden7fy barriers to recrui7ng
female donors, reasons for a high percentage of first-7me donors, and issues with
replacement donor programs. This informa7on is essen7al for developing targeted
strategies and policies.
• Transfusion Safety: Donor data management contributes to
transfusion safety by reducing errors in transfusion-transmiced infec7on (TTI) tes7ng. It
supports staff training, consolida7on of laboratory centers, and the implementa7on of
highly sensi7ve screening tests. It also enables look-back studies for TTIs and efficient
laboratory prac7ces.
• Data Storage for Verifica,on: Some blood centers, like the Korean
Red Cross, store donor data for extended periods. This allows real-7me verifica7on of
donor eligibility and facilitates informa7on dissemina7on regarding urgent blood
requirements and rare blood groups.
• Interna,onal Collabora,ons: Projects like DOMAINE (Donor
Management IN Europe) bring together blood establishments from mul7ple countries to
collaborate on donor management. This interna7onal collabora7on enhances the
exchange of best prac7ces and experiences in donor recruitment and reten7on.
In summary, donor data management is a cri7cal component of a safe and efficient
blood dona7on and transfusion system. It supports recruitment, reten7on, safety,
research, and policymaking efforts, ul7mately helping blood centers meet the
challenges and demands of their popula7ons.

Current status in the WHO South-East Asia Region

The progress toward achieving 100% voluntary non-remunerated blood dona7on

(VNRD) varies across countries in the South-East Asia Region, and several factors
influence this progress. Here are some key points regarding the status and efforts in
different countries:
• Replacement Dona,ons: Historically, in many countries in the
region, a significant propor7on of blood demands were met through replacement
dona7ons, where rela7ves and friends of pa7ents would donate blood when needed.
This prac7ce was prevalent in several countries except Thailand. Replacement
dona7ons, while not considered voluntary, have been a source of blood supply.
• Banning Paid Donor Systems: Many countries in the region have
banned professional paid-donor systems, but replacement dona7ons may s7ll persist as
a form of paid dona7on. Stringent donor screening is essen7al to address this issue and
ensure that replacement donors meet the necessary eligibility criteria.
• Na,onal Blood Policy: The adop7on of a na7onal blood policy has
contributed to improvements in the propor7on of VNRDs in several countries. Thailand,
for example, has achieved 100% VNRDs. Such policies provide a strategic framework for
blood donor recruitment, selec7on, screening, and overall blood safety.
• Blood Safety Improvement Projects: Some countries, like South
Korea, have implemented na7onal blood safety improvement projects. These projects
focus on preven7ng transfusion-transmiced infec7ons (TTIs) by enhancing monitoring
systems for transfusion and implemen7ng highly sensi7ve screening tests.
• India's Robust Blood Management: India has a comprehensive
blood donor management system supported by na7onal and regional health authori7es.
The Na7onal Blood Policy (NBP) and the "Ac7on Plan for Blood Safety" outline strategies
for donor recruitment, selec7on, screening, and confiden7ality. Licensing of blood banks
is mandatory, and professional blood dona7ons have been banned.
• Role of Na,onal Bodies: Na7onal bodies like the Na7onal Blood
Transfusion Council (NBTC) in India and the Na7onal Ins7tute of Biologicals (NIB) have
played vital roles in framing guidelines, monitoring blood banks, and improving blood
safety.
• Haemovigilance Programs: Some countries have ini7ated
haemovigilance programs to monitor and improve transfusion prac7ces. For example,
India launched the Na7onal Blood Donor Vigilance Programme (NBDVP) in 2015 to
enhance the safety of blood transfusion.
• Indonesia's Blood Service: In Indonesia, the blood service is
managed by the Indonesian Red Cross (IRC), and government decrees and policies
regulate blood collec7on. Awareness programs for blood dona7on are introduced at an
early stage, even in kindergartens.
• Donor Data Management: Blood donor data management systems
are opera7onal in several Member countries, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, India,
Indonesia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. These systems help in coordina7ng data
between blood centers and regional/na7onal donor databases.
Overall, while there has been significant progress in promo7ng VNRDs and enhancing
blood safety, there is s7ll work to be done to achieve the goal of 100% VNRDs across the
en7re South-East Asia Region. Na7onal policies, robust donor management systems,
and haemovigilance programs are essen7al components of these efforts.
The informa7on provided highlights the status of blood collec7on, blood safety, and
donor management systems in the South-East Asia Region. Here are some key points
from the data:
• Propor,on of VNRDs: According to the "Ac7on framework to
advance universal access to safe, effec7ve and quality-assured blood products 2020–
2023," the South-East Asia Region had made progress in collec7ng blood from voluntary
non-remunerated donors (VNRDs). In 2020, 82% of the whole blood collected in the
region came from VNRDs.
• Hospital Transfusion CommiRees (HTCs): A significant por7on of
Member countries in the South-East Asia Region (79%) had established Hospital
Transfusion Commicees (HTCs). These commicees play a crucial role in ensuring safe
and effec7ve blood transfusion prac7ces within healthcare facili7es.
• Processing into Components: Approximately 62% of countries in
the South-East Asia Region reported processing whole blood into components. This
prac7ce is essen7al for maximizing the u7lity of donated blood and ensuring that
pa7ents receive the specific components they need.
• Na,onal Haemovigilance System: Haemovigilance systems, which
monitor and improve transfusion safety, were reported to exist in 36% of countries in
the South-East Asia Region. Expanding these systems can help iden7fy and address
issues related to blood transfusion.
• Na,onal Blood Policy and Legisla,on: The Global status report on
blood safety and availability 2021 noted that 80% of countries in the South-East Asia
Region had a na7onal blood policy. Addi7onally, 70% of countries in the region reported
having specific legisla7on covering the safety and quality of blood transfusion. These
policies and regula7ons are essen7al for ensuring the safety of blood products.
• Inspec,ons and Accredita,on: A significant number of Member
countries in the region had systems in place for regular inspec7ons in blood centers
(70%). However, licensing and accredita7on of blood transfusion services were reported
by a lower percentage of countries (40% and 30%, respec7vely). Licensing and
accredita7on are important mechanisms for ensuring compliance with quality and
safety standards.
• Challenges in Some Countries: The report highlights some areas
where improvement is needed in specific countries within the region. For example,
Myanmar lacks a dedicated unit under the Ministry of Health for overseeing blood
transfusion ac7vi7es and does not have a na7onal strategic plan for blood safety.
Bhutan and Indonesia lack legisla7on for blood safety and quality, as well as specific
budget alloca7ons for their na7onal blood transfusion services (NBTS). Maldives does
not have na7onal guidelines for the clinical use of blood, and several countries,
including Indonesia, Maldives, Myanmar, and Timor-Leste, do not have na7onal
haemovigilance programs.
Overall, while progress has been made in various aspects of blood collec7on and safety
in the South-East Asia Region, there is s7ll room for improvement, especially in
addressing specific challenges and gaps in certain countries. Strengthening regulatory
frameworks, increasing the use of haemovigilance systems, and ensuring adequate
resources are allocated to blood transfusion services are important steps toward
achieving universal access to safe and quality-assured blood products.

Gaps and opportuni,es

The informa7on provided highlights several significant barriers to achieving 100%

quality management in the donor area among Member countries in the South-East Asia
Region. These barriers include:
• Lack of Government Policies and Planning: Some Member
countries, such as Myanmar and Timor-Leste, do not have a na7onal blood policy or a
well-planned blood program. Government policies and planning are essen7al for
establishing a framework for blood donor management and ensuring its quality.
• Resource Constraints: Limited availability of resources, both
financial and human, can hinder the development and implementa7on of effec7ve
donor management programs. Adequate resources are crucial for infrastructure,
staffing, and quality assurance.
• Professional Management: The need for professional management
and exper7se in transfusion medicine is essen7al for maintaining the quality and safety
of blood dona7ons. Without skilled professionals, there may be gaps in donor
recruitment, screening, reten7on, and overall management.
• Awareness and Educa,on: Public awareness and educa7on about
the importance of voluntary, non-remunerated blood dona7on are crucial for
encouraging voluntary donors. Lack of awareness or myths and misconcep7ons about
blood dona7on can deter poten7al donors.
• Cultural and Social Differences: Cultural and social factors can
influence people's aftudes and beliefs about blood dona7on. Addressing these
differences and dispelling false beliefs related to blood dona7on is important for
increasing donor par7cipa7on.
• Na,onal System for Blood Donor Management: To achieve quality
management in the donor area, countries should have a comprehensive na7onal system
that includes policies, guidelines, infrastructure, resources, quality systems, donor
educa7on, haemovigilance, and monitoring and evalua7on.
• Fragmented Blood Transfusion Services: Blood transfusion services
in some countries are highly fragmented, posing challenges to uniform policies and
centralized training. Reforms and reorganiza7on of the blood donor management
program may be necessary to ensure efficiency and quality.
• Centralized/Regionalized Tes,ng: WHO recommends centralized or
regionalized tes7ng as a policy to improve the safety of blood and blood components.
This approach can help standardize tes7ng procedures and enhance the quality of blood
products.
In summary, addressing these barriers and implemen7ng policies and prac7ces that
promote quality management in blood donor areas are essen7al steps toward achieving
safe and effec7ve blood dona7on programs. This includes government commitment,
resource alloca7on, professional training, public educa7on, and the establishment of a
comprehensive na7onal system for donor management.

Monitoring mechanisms of voluntary blood dona,on

Quality indicators in voluntary blood dona7on are crucial tools for monitoring and
improving blood dona7on ac7vi7es. These indicators provide insights into the efficiency
and safety of the blood dona7on process. They are typically categorized into three main
types: structural indicators, process indicators, and outcome indicators. Here's how they
help in monitoring blood dona7on ac7vi7es:
• Structural Indicators: These indicators focus on the organiza7onal
and infrastructural aspects of blood dona7on programs. They include:
• Blood Donor Profile: These indicators encompass data on the gender ra7o of
donors (male to female), age distribu7on of donors, and the propor7on of first-
7me/repeat donors. Monitoring these indicators helps in understanding the
demographics of the donor pool.
• Donor Types: This includes informa7on on voluntary donors, replacement
donors, and family donors. It helps in assessing the reliance on voluntary, non-
remunerated donors.
• Blood Stocks: Monitoring blood stocks is essen7al for ensuring an adequate and
7mely supply of blood components.
• Dona,on Camps: Tracking the number of voluntary blood dona7on camps helps
assess the outreach and accessibility of dona7on opportuni7es.
• Donor Registries: Maintaining registries of voluntary and rare blood donors helps
in efficient donor management.
• Process Indicators: These indicators focus on the steps and
processes within the blood dona7on system. They include:
• Donor Deferral Rate: This indicator measures the rate at which donors are
temporarily deferred, usually due to medical reasons. High deferral rates may indicate
issues with donor eligibility criteria or donor educa7on.
• TTI Prevalence Rate: Monitoring the prevalence of transfusion-transmiced
infec7ons (TTIs) among donors helps assess the safety of donated blood.
• Donor Adverse Events: Tracking adverse events experienced by donors during or
ager dona7on helps in ensuring donor safety.
• CUE (Confiden,al Unit Exclusion): CUE refers to the removal of donated blood
units from the supply due to concerns about donor health or eligibility. High CUE rates
may indicate issues with donor screening.
• Donor No,fica,on and Recall: Monitoring whether donors are informed of their
test results and recalling poten7ally infected donors is essen7al for preven7ng TTIs.
• Outcome Indicators: These indicators assess the overall impact of
blood dona7on ac7vi7es and donor sa7sfac7on. They include:
• Donor Feedback and Complaints: Gathering feedback and addressing donor
complaints help improve the donor experience and the quality of services.
• Donor Sa,sfac,on: Assessing donor sa7sfac7on levels helps in understanding the
overall donor experience and iden7fying areas for improvement.
• Correc,ve Measures: Monitoring whether correc7ve ac7ons are implemented in
a 7mely manner in response to iden7fied issues is essen7al for con7nuous
improvement.

Quality indicators enable blood banks and health authori7es to iden7fy areas of
concern, implement correc7ve ac7ons, and measure the effec7veness of quality
improvement efforts. They also facilitate comparisons between different regions and
countries, enabling benchmarking and the development of effec7ve donor policies.
Ul7mately, quality indicators play a vital role in ensuring the safety and sufficiency of
the blood supply.

Experience from different parts of the world, how they have improved voluntary
blood dona,on

The promo7on of voluntary non-remunerated blood dona7on (VNRD) is crucial for

sustaining a safe and sufficient supply of blood components in healthcare systems
worldwide. VNRD is considered the safest source of blood because it involves individuals
who willingly donate blood without receiving any form of payment or compensa7on.
Here are some key points related to VNRD and efforts to promote it:
• Regional Varia,on in VNRD: The propor7on of VNRD can vary
significantly by region. According to WHO data, the propor7on of VNRD varies from
region to region, with some regions having a higher percentage of VNRD than others.
For example, the European Region and the Western Pacific Region have par7cularly high
percentages of VNRD, while other regions like the Eastern Mediterranean Region have
lower percentages.
• Factors Influencing Blood Dona,on: Various factors can influence
an individual's decision to donate blood voluntarily. These factors include knowledge,
aftudes, beliefs, psychological factors, and social factors. Studies have been conducted
worldwide to understand these factors becer and to iden7fy barriers to blood dona7on.
The findings from these studies help blood centers and organiza7ons develop targeted
mo7va7onal ac7vi7es to encourage voluntary blood dona7on.
• Educa,onal Ini,a,ves: Educa7onal ins7tu7ons, such as schools and
medical colleges, have been recognized as ideal planorms for crea7ng awareness and
educa7ng young people about the importance of blood dona7on. Ini7a7ves in Nigeria,
for example, have involved blood dona7on drives in schools and colleges to promote
voluntary blood dona7on among youth.
• Incen,ves for VNRD: Some countries have explored the use of
incen7ves to encourage VNRD. These incen7ves may include discounts, 7ckets, gigs, or
paid 7me off work. Research suggests that certain incen7ves can effec7vely support
VNRD recruitment and reten7on campaigns. However, it's essen7al to strike a balance,
as cash payments as incen7ves may demo7vate voluntary donors. Donor convenience,
health checks, and donor apprecia7on also play significant roles in retaining VNRDs.
• Developed vs. Developing Countries: The approach to promo7ng
VNRD can vary between developed and developing countries. Developed na7ons ogen
have appropriate legisla7on, direc7ves from health authori7es, and established na7onal
blood services or Red Cross organiza7ons to administer voluntary blood dona7on
programs. These countries tend to have robust financial models supported by the
government or other organiza7ons, along with strict regulatory mechanisms, such as
inspec7ons, licensing, and accredita7on, to ensure blood quality and product safety.
• Na,onal Blood Policies: A cri7cal component of promo7ng VNRD is
the establishment of na7onal blood policies. Many countries have developed na7onal
blood policies to guide their blood dona7on programs. These policies outline strategies
for recruitment, reten7on, quality control, and safety measures.
Promo7ng VNRD is an ongoing effort that requires a combina7on of educa7onal
ini7a7ves, donor incen7ves, strong policies, and regulatory frameworks. The goal is to
ensure a sustainable and safe blood supply while mee7ng the needs of pa7ents and
healthcare systems.

Current status in the WHO South-East Asia Region

Promo7ng 100% voluntary non-remunerated blood dona7on (VNRD) in developing
countries can be challenging due to several factors. Here are some of the key challenges
and considera7ons related to VNRD in developing countries in the Region:
• Limited Financial Resources: One of the significant challenges faced
by developing countries in promo7ng VNRD is limited financial resources. This limita7on
affects various aspects of the blood dona7on process, including the availability of
suitable premises, infrastructure (equipment and consumables), and the recruitment
and training of staff.
• Low Socioeconomic Status: The low socioeconomic status of the
popula7on can contribute to their overall poor health, which may affect their
willingness and ability to donate blood regularly. Addressing the broader health and
economic challenges of the popula7on is essen7al to improve the overall health and
blood dona7on rates.
• Lack of Awareness and Educa,on: Lack of awareness and poor
educa7on among the popula7on can lead to misconcep7ons and myths about blood
dona7on. Many people may not fully understand the importance of voluntary blood
dona7on or may hold beliefs that discourage them from par7cipa7ng.
• Need for Strong Legisla,on: Developing countries may benefit from
strong legisla7on under a central ministry responsible for providing guidelines and
supervision to blood centers. Such legisla7on can help standardize blood collec7on and
tes7ng procedures and ensure adherence to quality and safety standards.
• Human Resource Development: The development of a dedicated
human resource development (HRD) wing is crucial for strengthening trained human
resources to support VNRD efforts. Training programs for blood donor counsellors and
VNRD liaison officers (VNRDLOs) can help educate the public and mobilize them for
VNRDs.
• Educa,onal Programs: Academic courses in social or behavioral
sciences and medical courses in transfusion medicine/immunohematology are essen7al
for promo7ng knowledge about blood dona7on. These courses can help individuals gain
the necessary knowledge and skills to educate the public effec7vely.
• Gender Dispari,es: Addressing gender dispari7es in blood dona7on
is essen7al. Some countries may have a significant imbalance in the gender of blood
donors, with males comprising the majority. Efforts should be made to encourage more
female donors to par7cipate in VNRD.
• Monitoring and Performance Indicators: Developing countries
should establish monitoring mechanisms and performance indicators specific to VNRD
programs. Key performance indicators may include donor deferral rates, the propor7on
of voluntary donors, repeat donors, female donors, and rates of transfusion-transmiced
infec7ons (TTIs).
• Rare Donor Registries: Developing rare blood donor registries is
another component of quality indicators in VNRD. These registries help acknowledge
and represent rare blood donors and support clinical transfusion prac7ces, par7cularly
for pa7ents with condi7ons such as thalassemia.
Addressing these challenges requires a mul7-faceted approach that includes educa7on,
legisla7on, training, and awareness campaigns. By focusing on these areas, developing
countries can work toward achieving higher rates of VNRD and a safer and more
sustainable blood supply.

Current status in the WHO South-East Asia Region

Promo7ng 100% voluntary non-remunerated blood dona7on (VNRD) in developing

countries within the Region faces several challenges. Here are some of the key
challenges and considera7ons:
• Limited Financial Resources: Many developing countries have
limited financial resources, which affect various aspects of blood dona7on, including the
availability of suitable facili7es, equipment, consumables, and the recruitment and
training of staff. Insufficient funds can hinder the expansion and improvement of blood
dona7on programs.
• Infrastructure and Resources: Inadequate infrastructure, including
outdated or insufficient equipment and limited access to consumables, can pose
significant challenges to blood dona7on programs. Developing countries may struggle to
maintain modern facili7es and technology.
• Shortage of Trained Staff: A shortage of well-trained and
experienced staff can affect the quality and efficiency of blood dona7on programs.
Adequate training and con7nuous professional development are essen7al for ensuring
safe and effec7ve blood collec7on.
• Low Socioeconomic Status: The low socioeconomic status of the
popula7on can impact their overall health, including their ability to donate blood
regularly. Poverty and limited access to healthcare may lead to poor general health
among poten7al donors.
• Lack of Awareness and Educa,on: Lack of awareness and poor
educa7on within the popula7on can lead to misconcep7ons and myths about blood
dona7on. This lack of knowledge can discourage individuals from par7cipa7ng in
voluntary blood dona7on.
• Legisla,on and Supervision: The need for strong legisla7on and
centralized supervision of blood centers is crucial for establishing and maintaining high-
quality blood dona7on programs. A centralized authority can help standardize
procedures, ensure adherence to safety standards, and provide oversight.
• Human Resource Development: Developing countries may need to
invest in human resource development programs to strengthen their workforce in the
field of blood dona7on. Training programs for blood donor counsellors and VNRD liaison
officers can help educate and mobilize the public for voluntary dona7ons.
• Gender Dispari,es: Addressing gender dispari7es in blood dona7on
is essen7al. Some countries may have a significant gender imbalance among blood
donors, with males comprising the majority. Efforts should be made to encourage more
female donors to par7cipate.
• Monitoring and Performance Indicators: Establishing specific
monitoring mechanisms and performance indicators for VNRDs can help evaluate the
effec7veness of blood dona7on programs. Key performance indicators may include
donor deferral rates, the propor7on of voluntary donors, repeat donors, female donors,
and rates of transfusion-transmiced infec7ons (TTIs).
• Rare Donor Registries: Developing rare blood donor registries is
another important component of quality indicators in VNRD programs. These registries
help acknowledge and represent rare blood donors and support clinical transfusion
prac7ces, par7cularly for pa7ents with condi7ons like thalassemia.
Addressing these challenges requires a coordinated effort, involving government
support, educa7on and awareness campaigns, infrastructure development, and
investment in training and human resource development. By addressing these issues,
developing countries can work toward achieving higher rates of VNRD and ensuring a
safer and more sustainable blood supply.

Promo7ng voluntary non-remunerated blood dona7on (VNRD) is crucial for ensuring a

safe and sustainable blood supply. Many countries, especially in developing regions,
employ various strategies and incen7ves to encourage VNRD. Here are some common
approaches and incen7ves used to promote VNRD:
• Special Campaigns: Organizing special campaigns and events
dedicated to blood dona7on is a common prac7ce. Events like World Blood Donor Day
and Na7onal Blood Dona7on Day are celebrated to raise awareness and honor
voluntary blood donors. These events serve as opportuni7es to educate the public
about the importance of blood dona7on.
• Token of Apprecia,on: To acknowledge and appreciate the efforts
of voluntary blood donors, blood centers ogen provide tokens of apprecia7on. These
may include cer7ficates, medals, badges, or other symbolic items. These tokens serve as
a way to recognize donors' altruism and commitment.
• Time Off from Work: Some employers offer paid 7me off or flexible
work hours to employees who par7cipate in blood dona7on drives. This allows donors
to contribute without concerns about work-related constraints.
• Reimbursement of Donor Travel: In some countries, donors are
reimbursed for their travel expenses when they visit blood dona7on centers. This can
help alleviate the financial burden associated with travel, especially for those who may
need to travel long distances to donate.
• Medical Insurance: Providing donors with specific medical
insurance benefits or coverage can be an incen7ve. This coverage may include medical
expenses related to the dona7on process or poten7al complica7ons.
• Special Recogni,on: Donors who have made a significant number
of dona7ons or have shown excep7onal commitment may receive special recogni7on
from blood centers or organiza7ons. This recogni7on can mo7vate others to become
regular donors.
• Public U,li,es: Some countries offer special privileges related to
public or medical u7li7es to blood donors. For example, donors may receive priority or
discounted access to certain public services or medical facili7es.
• Media Campaigns: Blood centers ogen u7lize electronic and print
media to run campaigns and raise awareness about blood dona7on. These campaigns
can include adver7sements, social media promo7ons, and public service
announcements.
It's important to note that the effec7veness of these incen7ves can vary depending on
cultural, economic, and social factors within each country. The goal is to create a
suppor7ve environment that encourages voluntary blood dona7on while ensuring the
safety and well-being of donors. Blood dona7on organiza7ons con7nuously evaluate
and adjust their strategies to op7mize donor recruitment and reten7on efforts.

The challenges and opportuni7es related to achieving 100% self-sufficiency in

transfusion requirements through voluntary non-remunerated blood dona7on (VNRD)
are complex and mul7faceted. Here are some key takeaways from the provided
informa7on:
Challenges:
• Legisla,ve Framework: Developing countries need to establish a
legisla7ve framework, such as a na7onal blood policy, under a central ministry to
recognize VNRDs as the sole source of blood and blood products. Banning paid and
professional blood donors is essen7al in this regard.
• Limited Funding: Insufficient funding for the development of
transfusion facili7es is a significant challenge. Blood services ogen face compe77on for
resources, especially during health emergencies like pandemics.
• Educa,on and Awareness: Raising the educa7on standards of the
popula7on can help change public percep7on and encourage VNRDs. Women's
educa7on, in par7cular, can have a posi7ve impact on the overall outlook of the
popula7on.
• Quality Assurance: Many countries lack well-established quality
assurance programs, including external quality assurance schemes (EQAS) and
accredita7on. Implemen7ng quality systems and standardized procedures for blood
collec7on and tes7ng is crucial.
• Decentralized Blood Supply: Fragmented and decentralized blood
supply systems are common in the region. Centralizing or coordina7ng blood centers
under one authority is essen7al to ensure uniform standards and procedures.
Opportuni,es:
• Na,onal Coordina,on: While a fully centralized na7onal blood
service may not be feasible in large countries, na7onal coordina7on is indispensable to
improve the efficiency and effec7veness of blood centers.
• Role of NGOs: Non-governmental organiza7ons (NGOs), such as the
Red Cross, Rotary, and Lions Club, play a crucial role in raising awareness about VNRDs,
par7cularly among youth. These organiza7ons can organize blood dona7on drives and
use social media to promote VNRDs.
• Social Media and Incen,ves: Social media campaigns and
incen7ves, such as publishing donor names or news items in newspapers, can posi7vely
influence VNRDs. Other incen7ves, like providing a day off, reimbursing transporta7on
costs, and covering meal expenses, can also be explored.
• Health Monitoring: Establishing mechanisms for monitoring the
health of donors, especially regular repeat donors, iron-deficient donors, TTI-reac7ve
donors, temporarily deferred donors, and rare blood donors, is essen7al to ensure
donor safety and well-being.
In summary, achieving self-sufficiency in blood supply through VNRDs in developing
countries requires a combina7on of legisla7ve support, funding alloca7on, educa7on
and awareness campaigns, quality assurance, coordina7on, and the involvement of
NGOs and social media. By addressing these challenges and leveraging opportuni7es,
countries can make progress toward their goals of safe and sustainable blood supplies.

The role of voluntary blood donors in mo7va7ng others and sefng an example cannot
be overstated. Here are some key points from the provided informa7on:
• Role Models: Voluntary blood donors can serve as role models for
others in their communi7es. When people see their peers dona7ng blood willingly and
without remunera7on, it can inspire them to do the same.
• Influence of Organiza,ons: Social, religious, and educa7onal
organiza7ons have the poten7al to promote voluntary non-remunerated blood
dona7on (VNRD) effec7vely. They can leverage their influence and networks to raise
awareness about the importance of VNRD and organize dona7on drives.
• Military and Paramilitary Forces: These forces play a unique role in
mo7va7ng blood dona7on. Their patrio7c values and dedica7on to the na7on can
inspire others to contribute to the well-being of the community by dona7ng blood.
• Financial Support: Adequate funding is essen7al to support blood
services and VNRD ini7a7ves. Without sufficient financial resources, it can be
challenging to create and maintain the infrastructure needed for safe and efficient blood
collec7on and distribu7on.
• Poli,cal Will: Poli7cal commitment and support are crucial for the
success of VNRD programs. Governments should priori7ze blood services and enact
policies and regula7ons that promote voluntary dona7on while discouraging
remunerated or professional dona7on.
• Educa,on: Educa7ng the general public about the importance of
VNRD and dispelling myths and misconcep7ons surrounding blood dona7on is essen7al.
Educa7onal campaigns can help create a culture of voluntary dona7on.
• Regula,on: Effec7ve regula7on of blood services ensures that they
meet quality and safety standards. Regula7on helps maintain public trust in the blood
dona7on process.
• Na,onal Database: A na7onal database of donors and blood
components can streamline the blood supply chain. It can help iden7fy donor
demographics, rare blood types, and dona7on trends, making it easier to match donors
with recipients.
• Commitment at All Levels: Achieving the goal of 100% self-
sufficiency in blood supply based on VNRD requires commitment at the na7onal,
regional, and local levels. Coopera7on among various stakeholders, including
governments, organiza7ons, and individuals, is vital.
In summary, voluntary blood donors play a pivotal role in promo7ng a culture of VNRD.
Their influence, coupled with support from organiza7ons, financial resources, poli7cal
commitment, educa7on, and effec7ve regula7on, can contribute to a safe and
sustainable blood supply system.