The General Directorate of Hemodonation of the SCS has issued an urgent call to the public to donate O negative blood, whose reserves are at a minimum. This group is vital in emergencies as it is compatible with any patient.
The General Directorate of Hemodonation and Hemotherapy of the Canary Islands Health Service (SCS) has activated an alert due to the shortage of O negative blood reserves, considered the universal donor of red blood cells. This blood type is essential in life-threatening situations, such as severe accidents, massive bleeding, or urgent surgical interventions, as it can be transfused to any patient without the need to wait to determine their exact blood group.
The SCS reminds that the demand for this component is constant and that, to maintain a safe stock, individuals with O negative blood should donate at least twice a year. Currently, reserves are at levels that require an immediate response from the population to ensure healthcare across the Canary Islands.
To facilitate donations, the network of fixed points of the SCS remains operational across all islands, in addition to itinerant campaigns that travel through municipalities. In Gran Canaria, donors can visit the Hemodonation headquarters on Alfonso XIII street in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, from Monday to Friday, 9:15 AM to 8:30 PM, except on holidays. This centre has vehicle access.
Another fixed point is located in Santa Lucía de Tirajana, in the annex of the Vecindario Health Centre, with different hours: Monday to Wednesday from 5:15 PM to 8:15 PM, and Thursday and Friday from 10:15 AM to 1:15 PM. Hospitals are also available for donations without an appointment: the Insular Hospital operates Monday to Friday from 10:30 AM to 7:30 PM; the Materno Infantil Hospital, Monday to Friday from 10:30 AM to 2:00 PM; and the Dr. Negrín University Hospital, Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM.
Blood donation is a simple and safe act that takes only about 30 minutes. The SCS insists that each donation can save up to three lives, and in the case of O negative blood, its usefulness in emergencies makes it a strategic resource. Therefore, those with this blood group are urged to donate as soon as possible.
Additionally, the SCS reminds that the requirements for donating are to be between 18 and 65 years old, weigh more than 50 kilos, and be in good health. It is not necessary to fast before donating, although it is recommended not to have had a heavy meal beforehand. Individuals who have recently travelled to high-risk areas or have any medical conditions should consult with healthcare personnel.
For those who do not know their blood type, donating is also an opportunity to discover it. The SCS encourages the entire population to join the campaigns, regardless of their blood type, as all types are needed. However, the current urgency focuses on O negative due to its critical role in emergency care.
The network of fixed points and mobile units allows donation to be accessible to all corners of the archipelago. In the coming weeks, informational campaigns will be intensified to raise awareness among the population about the importance of regular donations. The SCS relies on the solidarity of the Canarians to overcome this situation.
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