Ottawa – National Blood Donor Week and World Blood Donor Day on June 14, is an important time to raise awareness about blood, plasma and blood products donation and recognize the donors who help save lives with their contributions.
In Canada, the demand for blood, plasma, and blood products remains high, especially among certain racial and ethnic communities. Donors from all backgrounds are needed, but people who are of diverse Asian, African, Caribbean, Middle Eastern and Indigenous ancestry, as well as those of mixed ancestry, are uniquely positioned to help save lives. Over half of Canadians will require blood or blood products for themselves or a family member during their lifetime. Now, more than ever, new blood donors are needed to replenish our country’s donor base.
Canada has one of the safest blood systems in the world, thanks to the strict standards set out in Health Canada’s Food and Drugs Act and Blood Regulations for the collection of blood and plasma. The Government of Canada understands that a donation process that is as inclusive as possible helps support a stronger blood system in Canada. More donations help save lives and strengthen our health care system overall, improving access to life saving health care services when and where we need them.
To support the blood system in Canada, the Government of Canada provides $5 million to Canadian Blood Services (CBS) every year for blood research and development. In the past year, this funding has been used by CBS to better understand systemic barriers to donation for some South Asian communities and individuals of African descent and how to address these challenges. In addition, researchers are studying how to enhance stem cell growth in order to better treat diseases such as leukemia, lymphoma, and other blood disorders. This support to research will help ensure a safe and effective supply of blood and blood products for Canadians.
This week, we encourage everyone to think about donating blood, plasma, and blood products that help save lives, and thank you to all those who have donated and continue to do so. Learn how you can donate today. – Mark Holland, Ya’ara Saks