Rescue in the summer heat: Blood donations urgently needed!

Rescue in the summer heat: Blood donations urgently needed!

Midsummer temperatures and the beginning of the holiday season are currently leading to a worrying decline in blood donations in Leipzig. The Leipzig University Hospital (UKL) has therefore made an urgent appeal to the population to support the blood bank. Growth in demand for blood supplies is offset by declining supply as many regular donors are on vacation and the warm temperatures in June discourage potential donors.

“The current situation is really critical,” says Prof. Dr. Reinhard Henschler, Director of the Institute for Transfusion Medicine (ITM) at UKL. “The summer months always present a particular challenge, but this year the situation is particularly tense.” Blood donations are necessary all year round during this time, and the need for blood reserves increases, especially due to the increased risk of accidents in the summer months. Demographic factors, such as the increasing age of the population, also contribute to the increasing need.

The need for blood supplies

Blood is essential for many medical emergencies, including surgeries, transplants and supporting seriously ill people. Patients who are dependent on heart-lung machines or who suffer from chronic illnesses such as cancer are particularly at risk. It is essential to emphasize that blood cannot be replaced artificially, which is why blood donations are of particular importance, explains aponet.de.

Another challenge is that younger people donate blood less often than their older counterparts. This could lead to an even larger gap between supply and demand in the future. Older people tend to be most willing to donate, while young people need to be motivated.

Information about blood donation

The UKL organized blood donations in air-conditioned rooms to improve the conditions for donors. Anyone who does not pay attention to their health during the heat period should remember that donating blood is harmless if they are in good physical condition. Before the donation, important vital signs such as blood pressure, pulse and body temperature are checked. For optimal preparation, it is recommended to eat and drink enough.

• Voraussetzungen für das Blutspenden sind:
• mindestens 18 Jahre alt
• Gewicht über 50 kg
• gesund

For those who want to go on vacation soon, it is important to donate blood in advance in order to prevent reserves after staying in certain holiday regions. Donors can also enjoy a refreshing ice cream during this campaign and have the chance to win a limited-edition cloth bag if they bring a new donor with them.

The blood bank team is available if you are unsure about medication or medical procedures. Those interested can visit the website www.blutbank-leipzig.de Find out more or book appointments by phone on 0341 97-25393. Current information and donation dates are also published on the Instagram channel @ukl_blutbank.