Severe Blood Shortage in Amhara Region Puts Patients' Lives at Risk
The Amhara Region is grappling with a critical blood shortage, particularly affecting rural health facilities. Efforts to collect blood are hindered by transportation and security issues, putting patients' lives in danger.
Patients' Lives at Risk Due to Severe Blood Shortage in Amhara Region
The Amhara Region is facing a critical blood shortage, with blood collection efforts currently limited to major cities due to transportation and security challenges. Dr. Melash Gelaw, Acting Head of the Ethiopian Blood and Tissue Bank Service, explained to Bsrat Radio and Television that blood collection activities are not being conducted in rural areas and districts.
Areas such as Debre Markos, Wagh Himra, Sekota, Kemise, Weldiya, and Debre Tabor are experiencing severe blood shortages, with the collected blood falling far short of the required amounts. Health facilities in rural areas are reportedly resorting to using taxis and vehicles from non-governmental aid organizations to transport blood for patient care.
Despite these efforts, the situation remains dire, with the previous inadequate service levels putting patients' lives at significant risk. For instance, 450 milliliters of blood can serve three people, but the shortage is particularly acute for cancer patients who require platelets, a specific blood component.
Dr. Melash Gelaw also noted that red blood cells, another critical blood component, can be stored for up to 42 days. However, the ongoing shortage continues to pose a serious challenge to healthcare delivery in the region.
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