WHO report shows progress in blood safety, but there are worrying gaps
WHO Report Shows Progress in Blood Safety, But Gaps Remain
WHO report shows progress in blood - According to the latest World Health Organization (WHO) report, there has been notable progress in blood safety across the globe, yet significant gaps persist in ensuring equitable access to lifesaving blood transfusions. The findings underscore the critical role of blood in healthcare systems, particularly for women facing childbirth complications, accident victims, cancer patients, and individuals living with chronic diseases. While advancements have been made, the report reveals that lower-income countries still struggle with blood shortages, which threaten the health and lives of millions.
Comprehensive Assessment of Global Blood Systems
The WHO report, released ahead of World Blood Donor Day on 14 June, provides the most detailed analysis of blood systems worldwide to date. It draws on data from 168 countries, representing 97% of the global population, to evaluate the state of blood donation, collection, testing, and distribution. This extensive survey highlights both the achievements of recent years and the persistent challenges that hinder universal blood access. The report also emphasizes the importance of strong national systems and international collaboration in addressing these issues.
Advancements in Blood Donation Practices
One of the report’s key findings is the increase in the proportion of voluntary unpaid donors, now accounting for over 85% of global blood donations. This shift is seen as a major breakthrough in blood safety, as unpaid donors are generally considered the most reliable and sustainable source of blood. The WHO attributes this progress to improved donor recruitment strategies, enhanced education campaigns, and stricter safety protocols in many regions. However, the report notes that these gains are not uniformly distributed, with some countries still relying heavily on paid donations, which can lead to shortages and quality concerns.
Challenges in Ensuring Universal Access
Despite these advancements, the report identifies persistent challenges in low- and middle-income countries, where blood shortages and weak governance continue to limit access to safe transfusions. Inadequate financing, lack of infrastructure, and limited regulatory oversight are cited as major obstacles. For instance, in some regions, blood banks operate with outdated equipment, and laboratories may not meet international safety standards. These factors contribute to a higher risk of transfusion-related complications, particularly in emergencies and for patients with chronic conditions.
The WHO report shows progress in blood safety, but the study also highlights the ongoing need for investment in blood systems. Reliable blood supplies are essential for treating a wide range of medical conditions, from severe bleeding during childbirth to emergency surgeries, cancer therapies, and chronic anaemia. Donated plasma, a vital component of blood, is used to produce medicines for people with immune deficiencies, bleeding disorders, and other critical illnesses. Yet, in many areas, plasma-derived products remain inaccessible or unaffordable, exacerbating health disparities.
“Access to sufficient, secure supplies of blood and blood products, coupled with safe transfusion practices, is a fundamental component of resilient health systems and a critical enabler of universal health coverage,” wrote Deusdedit Mubangizi, Director for Medicines and Health Products Policies and Standards at WHO, in the report’s preface. The statement underscores the need for sustainable systems that can meet the growing demand for blood, especially as populations age and medical needs increase. The WHO report shows progress in blood safety, emphasizing that while global efforts have yielded positive results, much work remains to ensure every individual can benefit from these advancements.
To achieve equitable access, the WHO calls for sustained political commitment, stronger national systems, and continued international cooperation. The report suggests that countries must prioritize funding for blood services, invest in training and infrastructure, and strengthen regulatory frameworks. Additionally, diversifying plasma collection methods and improving global supply chains for plasma-derived medicines are highlighted as key strategies. The report’s findings align with this year’s World Blood Donor Day campaign, which promotes the values of solidarity, compassion, and shared responsibility that underpin safe blood systems worldwide.