Rational Use of Blood Key to Tackling India’s Shortage: AP Minister
Meeting the growing demand for blood in India, a country of over 140 crore people, is a major challenge, said Andhra Pradesh Health Minister Satyakumar Yadav. He called for the rational use of blood and blood products to become a part of everyday medical practice to overcome shortages and save lives.
Speaking at a two-day national workshop on Rational Use of Blood and Blood Products, organized by the AP Blood Transfusion Services Department and the State AIDS Control Association, Mr. Yadav said India requires 1.5 crore units of blood annually. Yet, the country still faces a shortfall of 10–40 lakh units.
Citing WHO guidelines, he said at least 1 percent of the population should be regular blood donors. “Based on this, Andhra Pradesh needs about 5.3 lakh units a year. Last year, the state collected over 7 lakh units, which is encouraging,” he added.
Calling blood “the foundation of life,” Mr. Yadav said rational use ensures patients receive only the blood components they need — red cells, platelets, or plasma. Hospitals should focus on component-based transfusions to improve outcomes and reduce wastage. He also recommended iron supplements and erythropoietin to manage anemia before surgery.
“Blood transfusions should be reserved for emergencies,” he emphasized, underlining the importance of timely access for accidents, surgeries, and critical care.
Highlighting Andhra Pradesh’s progress, he said the state operates 394 blood storage centers with modern tools like the e-Blood Bank system and digital inventory tracking for transparency and efficiency.
Voluntary blood donations have increased due to awareness campaigns. Mr. Yadav urged citizens, especially youth, to donate. “About 85 percent of young people still don’t donate. One donation can save up to three lives,” he said.
The Minister also said the government is strengthening healthcare in tribal and remote areas and running campaigns on waterborne diseases.
Senior Union Health Ministry officials and WHO representatives attended the workshop. They discussed strategies for efficient blood management across India and launched the NBTC quarterly newsletter.