Affinity Health Blood Drive Saves Lives
To assist The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) South Africa’s leading provider of health insurance, Affinity Health, hosted six blood drives.
Did You Know that Every Two Seconds, Someone Needs Blood?
Latest SANBS statistics show that less than 1% of South Africans are active blood donors.
In light of this, Affinity Health has worked tirelessly to provide 249 units of blood for SANBS ahead of the festive season, when there is an increase in accidents and medical emergencies.
Donated blood is lifesaving for individuals, who need it, but blood is scarce. There is a shortage of active blood donors that meet the increased blood demand, even more so now because of COVID-19. Currently, blood stock levels are critically low.
The SANBS needs to maintain a blood stock level of 5 days for each blood group to ensure sustained blood availability for patients in need.
Every day, thousands of people would die if others did not donate their blood. You are giving a patient something money cannot buy, and science cannot create by donating blood. Because it contains living cells, blood is alive. Unlike medications that are manufactured, blood cannot be manufactured. Healthy donors are the only source of blood for those who need it.
A single blood donation can equal three gifts of life, as nearly every blood donation is separated into red blood cells, plasma, and platelets.
“To collect sufficient blood remains an ongoing challenge worldwide but is especially challenging in South Africa,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health.
“South Africa needs around 810,000 units of blood every year. People needing blood transfusions include accident victims, those with anaemia, and patients undergoing surgery. But only a handful of South Africans are active blood donors, which means regular shortages of supply.”
Affinity Health remains committed to helping SANBS ensure that our country has enough healthy and clean blood reserves available.
About Affinity Health
Affinity Health is South Africa’s leading provider of health insurance, offering you a range of options at affordable rates including access to the widest national provider network. We understand the importance of having medical insurance that meets your needs, your budget, and your lifestyle. Our range of healthcare products are designed to protect you and your family when it matters the most. We strive to give our clients peace of mind and the highest standard of service at all times. For more information, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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