In an effort to maintain adequate supplies and universal access to safe blood transfusion, the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria in Kaduna state has called for partnership with government and other relevant stakeholders to ensure availability of safe blood for Nigerians.
The Association also stressed the need for increased government investment in the area of safe blood and its products toward building a sustainable National Blood System to increase collection from voluntary non-remunerated blood donors.
Speaking during an awareness program on the essence of safe blood and its products to commemorate the World Blood Donor Day, at an Hospital in Kaduna, Chairman of the Association, Mr. Lawal Taofeeq Babsalam said, the event became imperative following the need to support the emergency service unit of the hospital in view of its strategic location and accessibility to victims of Road Traffic Accident and Disaster.
The Chairman of Association encouraged regular donors to keep the world beating by donating regularly, saying it is therapeutic for both the donors and the recipients.
He identified the associated benefits of blood donation to include, reduction of Iron deposition, promoting healthy liver, preventing hemochromatosis, as well as stimulating blood cell production, and free blood screening among others.
While thanking members of the Association for embarking on such a lifesaving activity, the chairman also pointed to the fact that, the campaign was aimed at promoting the values of voluntary blood donation in enhancing community solidarity and social cohesion.
DANIEL KARLMAX
