Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA) has urged all community members to donate blood to save the life of patients in need. Speaking to the media, Dr Naima Oumeziane, Medical Director, Abu Dhabi Blood Bank Services (ADBBS)-SEHA, stated that blood donations are crucial to help rapid medical and surgical procedures to save the lives of accident victims along with cancer, cardiac and transplant patients. 

Some patients, including those diagnosed with thalassemia or sickle cell anaemia, particularly require blood therapy every three weeks. Furthermore, blood transfusions are significant in saving the lives of people involved in accidents or incidents in which major blood loss takes place.

Amid the Eid Al Fitr holidays and festive celebrations, Dr Oumeziane encouraged all community members to continue donating blood to help healthcare authorities in managing the blood transfusion needs of patients.

“There are currently no substitutes for blood therapy, and we would not be able to provide life-saving treatments without the generous time and effort of our volunteer blood donors," he added.

During the holy month of Ramadan, ADBBS ensured flexible working hours to ensure ease of access for people observing fasts. The blood banks in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra continue to work for people willing to donate blood as well as for patients in need. 

Dr Oumeziane added that people who have not donated blood in the past eight weeks, weigh at least 50 kg and meet other donor requirements, are eligible to donate blood at the facility. 

Community members aged between 18 and 65 years and leading a healthy life are able to donate blood every 56 days.

“Just a single pint of blood can save three lives. Save a life today. Donate blood,” Dr Oumeziane affirmed.

People can book an appointment for donating blood and saving the lives of those in need by contacting Abu Dhabi Blood Bank on 02 819 1700, Al Ain Blood Bank on 03 707 4191 and Al Dhafra Blood Bank on 02 807 2887.

SOURCE LINK: https://www.khaleejtimes.com/health/abu-dhabi-seha-urges-residents-to-donate-blood-and-save-lives