The scarcity also affects B- blood supplies, prompting a recommendation for donors of both blood types to visit donation centers within the next two to three days. Other groups such as 0+, 0-, A+, AB+, AB-, and B+ maintain stable levels, though regular donation remains crucial to ensure continuous supply.
“"The demand for blood is constant in Madrid's hospitals to attend to emergencies, surgical interventions, or treatments requiring transfusions. These needs cannot be met by other means, as blood cannot be manufactured, and its components have an expiration date."
Annually, approximately 38,000 units of blood are transfused in surgeries, 42,000 to oncohematological patients, 40,000 in Internal Medicine services, over 30,000 in Emergency departments, and around 9,000 in pediatric interventions, highlighting the critical need to maintain reserves.
To donate blood, individuals must be between 18 and 65 years old, weigh over 50 kilograms, and be in good health. The donation process takes approximately 20 minutes. The Community of Madrid has a network of 30 hospitals equipped for donation, in addition to the regional Transfusion Center in Valdebernardo and mobile units from both the Community and the Red Cross. Donations can also be made at the Red Cross facility at Juan Montalvo Street, 3, in Madrid. Specific schedules and locations are available on the official website of the Community of Madrid.
