Brazil faces blood bank shortages; donation culture is crucial to maintaining supplies
A simple act of solidarity, like donating blood, can save many lives – especially at this time of year when blood banks often face shortages. That’s why we’ve gathered six initiatives that promote this noble act of love. To donate blood, you must be in good health, be between 16 and 69 years old, weigh at least 50 kg (110 lbs), be well-rested and well-fed and present a photo identification document.
Remember that donating blood is not recommended if you have flu or cold symptoms such as fever, cough, or nasal congestion. Pregnant women are also not eligible to donate blood. But if you’re feeling well and meet the requirements, don’t hesitate to become a donor — find the nearest donation center! Here are some initiatives to inspire you:
Amor se Doa
Each donated unit of blood can save up to four lives. With this in mind, the Amor se Doa (”Love is Donated”, in English) project raises awareness about the importance of regular blood donation by organizing donation campaigns and events in partnership with blood centers, hospitals, and healthcare institutions in São Paulo. The project is run by a team of volunteers and promotes its actions through social media. Learn more on their website and follow them on Instagram at @amorsedoa.
Hemocione
Donating blood takes only ten minutes and can be done in various locations. To foster a culture of blood donation, Hemocione organizes events in schools, colleges, and companies across Brazil. These events are preceded by engagement campaigns featuring lectures, social media posts, posters, and other available materials. The initiative also focuses on producing educational content and scientific articles to support public policies related to blood donation. Discover all their actions on their website and follow them on Instagram at @hemocione.
Instituto Sangue Bom
Based in Campo Grande, the capital of Mato Grosso do Sul, Instituto Sangue Bom (“Good Blood Institute”, in English) promotes the donation of bone marrow, blood and organs. It was founded in 2015 by Professor Carlão, a patient who survived thanks to a bone marrow transplant and multiple blood transfusions. With a volunteer team specializing in legal, accounting, sports, educational, social, and humanitarian areas, the institute now encourages good deeds through sports and donation campaigns throughout the city. Follow them on Instagram, at @institutosanguebom, and on Facebook to learn more.
Caravana da Solidariedade
In Ceará, the Centro de Hematologia e Hemoterapia (Hemoce) (“Hematology and Hemotherapy Center – Hemoce”, in English) provides a van service to transport individuals who wish to donate blood. This free service, offered by the state health department in partnership with the government, aims to encourage regular blood donation among volunteer groups. The Caravana da Solidariedade (“Solidarity Caravan”) operates weekly, following an external service schedule. For more information, visit their website or follow @hemoceoficial on Instagram.
Hemogo
In Goiás, the Hemocentro runs various programs to promote blood donation. The Projeto Doador do Futuro (“Future Donor Project”, in English) engages students and their families through educational activities that encourage blood and bone marrow donation. Meanwhile, the Projeto Empresa Parceira (“Partner Company Project”, in English) brings a mobile blood donation unit to companies, industries, commercial organizations, and public and private institutions – including colleges, churches, and state and municipal offices – both in the capital and rural areas. To participate, visit their website or follow @hemocentrogoias on Instagram.
Movimento Salvo Vidas
Blood donations often occur randomly, leading to shortages of certain blood types and surpluses of others. To address this issue, the Movimento Salvo Vidas (“I Save Lives Movement”, in English) leverages technology and data science to engage donors based on real-time blood type demand across Brazil. Through an online platform, donors can register and receive alerts when a blood bank in their area needs their specific blood type. Ambassadors of this initiative include famous Brazilians such as Emerson Espíndola, Sophia Abrahão and Fábio Porchat. To learn more, visit their website or follow @salvovidas on Instagram.
Recommendations
Remember: if you’re donating blood, do not fast. However, avoid fatty foods for at least four hours before donating. Iron-rich foods like meat and beans are a great choice and staying well-hydrated with plenty of water and juice is essential, as the donation process involves removing 450 ml of fluid from your body.
Getting at least six hours of sleep the night before makes a big difference. Avoid alcohol for 12 hours before donating and, if possible, refrain from smoking for at least two hours prior. Most importantly, make sure you’re feeling well! No fever, skin rashes or other symptoms. Don’t forget to bring an official photo ID, and after donating, avoid intense physical activity for at least 12 hours.
