Singapore Red Cross and HSA emphasize the need for continued donations to sustain vital blood reserves.
SINGAPORE: Blood stocks for group O in Singapore have returned to stable levels following an overwhelming response to a public appeal for donations. The Singapore Red Cross (SRC) and the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) expressed gratitude to the more than 5,300 individuals who contributed after the appeal was launched on Jan 25.
Over the past week, nearly 3,300 units of O+ blood were collected, resulting in a remarkable 230 percent increase in group O+ reserves.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to all donors for their life-saving contributions. Blood donation reflects community resilience and a caring society,” said Mr. Benjamin William, secretary general and CEO of SRC. He underscored the importance of consistent donor participation to ensure timely access to blood for patients in need.
Health Minister Ong Ye Kung also praised the broad response, noting that donors came from diverse backgrounds, including civil servants, professionals, business owners, and artists.
Sustaining Blood Stocks
While group O blood stocks are currently healthy, SRC and HSA cautioned that stocks of A- and B- blood types remain low. The period during and after Chinese New Year is critical, as blood collection typically declines by 20 percent during festive seasons and long weekends.
“There’s a risk that group O stocks could dip again without sustained momentum in donations,” warned HSA CEO Mimi Choong May Ling. She urged donors to contribute before and after the festive period to maintain a steady nine-day stockpile, which is the minimum required for emergencies.
Why Group O Matters
As the universal blood type, group O is essential during emergencies when patients’ blood types are unknown. Nearly 50 percent of Singapore’s patients have group O blood, which they can only receive from compatible group O donors.
Blood donations remain vital, given the short shelf life of red cells (six weeks) and platelets (seven days). SRC and HSA stressed the need for regular contributions to ensure a stable and reliable supply for medical and civil emergencies.
Looking Ahead
The recent appeal highlights the critical role of community involvement in supporting Singapore’s healthcare needs. Maintaining consistent donations will be crucial to ensuring the country is prepared for any unforeseen challenges.
