Call to donate blood during Ramadan in Oman

Muscat: Blood banks may experience blood shortages due to a decrease in donors during Ramadan, an official has said.
A doctor at the Central Blood Bank of Baushar spoke with the Times of Oman regarding efforts to encourage Oman’s community to donate blood and platelets during Ramadan.
He said there may be a shortage in donations during Ramadan.
“It is not desirable for donors to give blood during fasting orders, because donors should avoid any health risks, due to lack of nutrients and fluids in their bodies. Donating blood may force individuals to break their fast early. Donating in the night time is therefore more preferable, but there is a shorter window for donors to give blood,” he said.
More than 5,000 units of blood are needed monthly in Oman, prompting a need for the community to support ailing community members. However, the doctor assured the public that there isn’t any change in the number of people who need blood transfusions during Ramadan, as opposed to any other month.
“Cases for blood transfusions are often the same, and involve surgeries, or genetic blood diseases, anaemia patients, and chronic diseases. However, some incidental cases include cases of bleeding after accidents, or patients with burns,” he said.
The Central Blood Bank of Baushar, along with others around the country, have provided night time hours for donors to come in. However, donors should be aware of common health issues that may prevent a person from donating blood or platelets.
“Temporary conditions include the donor’s general health, or dental treatment, or taking medication. Some body infections, or deficiencies, or vaccinations may also affect your ability to donate. Certain treatments and surgeries may also cause a hindrance, as well as travelling to certain countries where disease is prevalent,” he said.
“Permanent conditions that wouldn’t allow for donation at all include cardiovascular diseases, infectious blood diseases, certain viruses, and diabetes,” he added.
The doctor encouraged all individuals to donate during the holy month, and to focus on post-fasting hours, and look out for the many blood donation campaigns and drives that are organised around the country.
“You should get enough rest before the donation, and eat a light meal before as well. Attempt to drink more than the usual amount of fluids before donating blood, and avoid any heavy activities within 24 hours of donating.”
The Central Blood Bank of Baushar has a morning session for those wishing to donate, from 8am to 12:30pm. Their evening hours are 7:30pm to 11:30 pm. The blood bank is open every day with the exception of Friday.
The Directory of Blood Bank Services regularly posts information regarding blood donations and blood drives that are being organised across the country, on their Twitter profile at @DbbsOman.