ISLAMABAD (PEN) : On the occasion of World Blood Donor Day, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif underscored the urgent need to raise public awareness about regular blood donations, citing Pakistan’s critical shortage of safe blood supply.
In his official message to mark the global observance on June 14, the Prime Minister paid tribute to voluntary blood donors, referring to them as “voluntary heroes” who offer a second chance at life through their selfless contributions.
“There is a need for increased public awareness about the critical need of regular blood donations for patients undergoing surgeries, childbirth and for those suffering from serious ailments like cancer and anemia,” the Prime Minister stated.
Theme Highlights Need for Collective Action
This year’s theme, *“Give blood, give hope: together we save lives,”* emphasizes the importance of regular blood donation as a life-saving act of compassion. The Prime Minister noted that the theme reflects the spirit of solidarity and humanity necessary to meet ongoing healthcare needs.
He stressed the necessity of ensuring a continuous and safe supply of blood, describing blood donation as “a necessity for the health care system of any country.”
Alarming Statistics on Blood Donation in Pakistan
Citing World Health Organization (WHO) data, the Prime Minister revealed that Pakistan continues to face a significant shortfall in safe blood availability, primarily due to low rates of voluntary donation. Currently, only *10 percent of blood donors in Pakistan are voluntary*, while the majority come from patients’ friends and family.
“There was a need for robust collective efforts to meet this mounting challenge,” he said.
Government and Community Response
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif assured that the government, through the *National Blood Transfusion Program (NBTP)*, is committed to addressing the shortage through awareness campaigns and improved infrastructure.
He acknowledged and appreciated the contributions of private blood donor associations, encouraging all healthy citizens—particularly the youth—to recognize blood donation as a civic duty.
“Together we make safer, protected and healthier Pakistan,” the Prime Minister concluded.
World Blood Donor Day is observed globally on June 14 to honor the birthday of Karl Landsteiner, the Austrian scientist who discovered the ABO blood group system—an essential breakthrough for modern blood transfusion practices.
