Warning as blood donations drop for the first time in Abu Dhabi

The drop in figures was tempered by the fact more Emiratis than ever before are donating blood.

Mohammed Zia, 17, was among the students to donate blood during the “give blood give life” campaign at Gems Private School in Dubai last month. Blood donations have fallen for the first time since recShow more

ABU DHABI // Blood donations have fallen for the first time since records began, but more Emiratis are becoming donors.

Authorities believe the summer timing of Ramadan last year contributed to the fall from 27,094 units of blood donated in 2011 to 26,819 in 2012.

“It is disappointing and it is the first time,” said Dr Naima Oumeziane, head of the Abu Dhabi Blood Bank.

“Last year Ramadan was in the middle of summer. In Ramadan there are much less blood collections as people don’t donate when fasting.

“We use to recover our blood stock right away after Ramadan but in 2012, a lot of people were away during and after Ramadan.”

As blood has only a 42-day shelf life, regular donations are vital to keep stocks at the necessary levels.

Dr Oumeziane said there had been a steady increase in donations since records began in 2006.

“Regular donations ensure a safe blood supply,” she said. “Regular donors are also safer because they are medically checked on a regular basis.”

She said it was encouraging that more Emiratis were giving blood – 5,077 last year, 1,283 more than the year before and the highest number on record.

Emiratis now make up 19 per cent of all blood donations, up from 14 per cent in 2011.

“The UAE population is more involved in blood donation than ever, they are very interested to donate blood,” said Dr Oumeziane.

She said giving blood takes just minutes but can make the difference between life and death.

“Blood donation is a noble act that costs nothing – maybe 30 minutes of their time – but it saves lives.”

The blood bank visits organisations, universities and public venues to highlight the importance of donating.

It also collects from donors in more isolated parts of Abu Dhabi who might have difficulties reaching the city at night.

Abu Dhabi residents interested in donating can find out if they are eligible and where to give by calling the blood bank at 02 8191700, or by visiting www.skmc.ae and clicking on "Donate Blood".