Donating blood saves lives and guarantees medical care for thousands of patients in Mexico. This was emphasized by Dr. Gamaliel Benítez Arvizu, director of the 21st Century Blood Bank of the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS), who highlighted the importance of altruistic donation and replacement blood to meet hospital demand for surgical procedures and specialized treatments.
The specialist explained that blood cannot be obtained through any means other than human donation, so maintaining reserves is essential to respond to emergencies and schedule surgeries. “Blood must be donated because, ultimately, it cannot be obtained any other way than from another person,” he emphasized.
The IMSS distinguishes between two main types of donation. Altruistic donation corresponds to those who, without having a hospitalized family member, donate once or twice a year for patients in need. “It is an act of solidarity that provides blood components capable of saving or improving the quality of life,” Benítez Arvizu pointed out.
On the other hand, replacement donation occurs when a family member or acquaintance of the patient donates blood in support. Although it does not always match the type the patient needs, Blood Bank staff search for a compatible unit to guarantee medical care.
Network of blood banks and blood donation centers in Mexico
The Social Security Institute (Social Security) has a national infrastructure to facilitate this process: 57 blood banks where blood components are processed, tested, and distributed, and 114 blood donation centers, open to beneficiaries and the general public.
The organization recommends donating preferably at the patient’s hospital, although it is also possible to donate in the donor’s hometown or at other authorized IMSS centers. In all cases, it is necessary to inform the Social Work department or the person in charge of the service when the donation is intended for a specific patient.
Use of Donated Blood
The collected blood is used for elective surgeries, medical emergencies, and care for trauma patients, obstetric patients, cardiovascular patients, and patients with chronic degenerative diseases such as cancer or kidney failure. It is also essential for radiotherapy and chemotherapy treatments.
With this call, the IMSS seeks to strengthen the culture of voluntary blood donation in Mexico and ensure that blood is always available for those facing a medical situation that depends on it.
Source: msn
