Portugal’s blood institute calls for donations as reserves run low

The Portuguese Institute of Blood and Transplantation (IPST) is urging people to donate before or during their summer holidays after warning that reserves for several blood groups have fallen below the levels needed to meet hospital demand.

In a statement, the institute said the situation is “particularly worrying” for the A+, A-, O+ and O- blood groups and appealed to eligible donors to come forward.

“We appeal to everyone to donate blood before or during their holidays so we can maintain blood reserves at adequate levels and continue meeting the needs of patients who depend on blood transfusions to survive,” the institute said.

According to the IPST, blood donations typically fall sharply from the beginning of July as many regular donors go on holiday and high temperatures discourage visits to donation centres.

However, hospitals in Portugal continue to require a steady supply of blood for cancer patients, accident victims, scheduled operations and medical emergencies.

“Hospital needs remain unchanged,” the institute stressed, warning that demand continues throughout the summer despite the seasonal drop in donations.

Donating is simple

The IPST reminded the public that donating blood is a simple procedure for healthy adults. Donors must be over 18, under 70, weigh at least 50 kilograms and be in good health.

The institute also recommends arriving well hydrated and having eaten beforehand.

Appointments can be booked through the IPST website, where prospective donors can also complete a self-assessment questionnaire before attending a donation centre.

Until September 15, the institute will publish updates every Monday and Friday on its social media channels highlighting the blood groups most urgently needed.

Michael Bruxo

Journalist for the Portugal Resident.