Residents across the Western Cape are being asked to donate blood as there is a huge shortage of O-negative and B-positive blood in the province.
Group O blood is extremely important for helping those in need. There are four main blood types and a total of eight that fall within these types, namely A+, A-, B+, B-, O+, O-, AB+ and AB-.
Blood types are determined by the absence or presence of A and B antigens in the red cells’ surface and A and B antibodies in the plasma.
Type O+ is the most common blood type and accounts for 37% to 56% of the population.
In emergency situations, the Western Cape Blood Service is able to give patients O-negative blood and it often saves lives that are hanging in the balance.
Currently, the Western Cape has a critical shortage of O-negative blood, and those who can are asked to donate as soon as possible.
To donate individuals must be between the ages of 16 and 75, weigh at least 50kg and be in good health.
If you would like to donate, follow this link for donation points near you.
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