International #MissingType
Global campaign urges Scots to be blood group aware
People and organisations across Scotland are taking part in the International #MissingType campaign, removing the A’s, B’s and O’s from their signage and social media to highlight the need for new A, B, O and AB blood donors.
The campaign comes after research from the Scottish Blood Transfusion Service (SNBTS) shows that the number of new blood donors in Scotland has declined by 30% in the last five years, and only 38% of Scots know their blood type. The statistics also demonstrate that despite the fact 96% of new donors are under 55, younger donors often don’t continue giving blood. This means SNBTS increasingly relies on donors aged 55 and over to make sure that there is always enough blood for patients.
SNBTS believe it is increasingly important that both existing and new blood donors know their blood group, as not every donor can help every patient. Dr Moira Carter, Associate Director of Donor Services
Dr Moira Carter, Associate Director of Donor Services, SNBTS says:
“The new research surprisingly revealed that many current donors are uncertain on their own blood type. Additionally, both donors and the wider public are unclear about how to find out what type they are. SNBTS believe that it is increasingly important that both existing and new blood donors know their blood group as not every donor can help every patient.
“We have recently updated our website so you can see what blood types we need on any given day. If your blood bag volume is low, we really need your blood type.
“We value all of Scotland’s blood donors, but sometimes we may need particular blood types more than others. By signing up to become a blood donor, and knowing your blood type, you may be able to help at a time when patients in Scotland need you most.”
The Scottish activity is part of a global campaign, with letters disappearing from signage and social media in more than 20 countries, including Australia, America, Japan, Ireland, and the rest of the UK.
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- To see full press release
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