The journey of blood: from one life to another
June 2012
Blood is vital for life. Despite ongoing efforts, it will still be many years before artificial blood substitutes can widely replace the donated human blood. A nation can meet all its need for blood if only 1% to 3% of its population donate.
Voluntary blood donors are the safest source of blood, compared to people who donate for family members in emergencies or who give blood for payment. WHO is advocating that all countries move to a system of regular voluntary blood donation to meet their needs. It is essential that every nation has a stable pool of healthy donors who donate blood regularly.
The journey from the time blood is donated to when it is transfused is a complex one as it needs to be tested, stored and transported prior to use. Transfusion services face the challenge of providing blood that is safe and adequate to meet the rising demand.
This photo story chronicles the journey of donated blood from the donor to the recipient.
related links
Events
-
The 8th Global Conference on Health Promotion
10–14 June 2013
-
Sixty-sixth World Health Assembly
20–28 May 2013
Corporate resources
-
The world health report
Report on global public health and key statistics -
World health statistics report
WHO's annual compilation of data from its Member States -
International travel and health
Publication on travel risks, precautions and vaccination requirements -
International Health Regulations (IHR)
Global rules to enhance national, regional and global public health security