Every year on June 14, nations worldwide observe World Blood Donor Day, an occasion dedicated to expressing gratitude to voluntary non-remunerated blood donors (VNRDs) for their altruistic contributions that save lives. This day serves not only to acknowledge these generous individuals but also to highlight the ongoing and critical need for safe and regular blood donations. Establishing a strong and sustainable blood donor program, characterized by widespread and active community participation, is essential for meeting the increasing demand for blood. This year’s theme for World Blood Donor Day, "Give blood, give hope: together we save lives," underscores the significant impact of VNRDs and celebrates the collective strength of community solidarity in the fight to save lives.
In Sri Lanka, a well-coordinated National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) ensures that 100% of blood and blood components are collected from voluntary non-remunerated donors (VNRDs) from low-risk populations. The country has made significant strides in implementing quality-assured testing of all donated blood, supported by a robust hemovigilance system to monitor and minimize adverse events. This critical work is led by the NBTS under the Ministry of Health.
As a World Health Organization Collaborating Center (WHO CC) for blood transfusion services, the NBTS extends its technical expertise to Member States in the Region and beyond since 2018. A notable example is its partnership with the Maldivian Blood Services to develop a comprehensive 10-Year National Master Plan for Thalassemia Prevention, Control, and Management in 2024.
World Health Organization has been instrumental in bolstering blood transfusion services in Sri Lanka. This year, WHO is supporting the NBTS in conducting an annual review of the national hemovigilance unit, and in capacity-building in the areas of blood safety, patient safety, and quality of care.
World Blood Donor Day serves as a powerful reminder for all stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to blood safety. It emphasizes the necessity for collective action at all levels to invest in, strengthen, and sustain robust national blood transfusion programs. World Health Organization remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting Sri Lanka in its ongoing efforts to enhance blood transfusion services, ensuring the availability of safe blood and blood products for all those in need.
Further reading:
- World Blood Donor Day 2025 - https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-blood-donor-day/2025
- National Blood Transfusion Service, Sri Lanka - https://nbts.health.gov.lk/
- WHO- FAQs on safe blood donations - https://cdn.who.int/media/docs/default-source/searo/blt/faqs-blood-donations_who.pdf?sfvrsn=79f5a757_1