Chief Medical Officer Encourages Culture Of Voluntary Blood Donation

By Rancy S. Teewia

MONROVIA, June15 (LINA) – Liberia’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Catherine Cooper has encouraged Liberians across the globe to cultivate the culture of voluntary blood donation – a move she said, will save the lives of people in need.         

Delivering the keynote address at the official commemoration of the National Blood Safety Day over the weekend in Monrovia, Dr. Cooper emphasized the significance of blood donation, citing that blood is the biggest gift in the world.

“Studies have shown that voluntary donors are more likely to be honest about their health status and risk factors, leading to safer blood supplies. Moreover, a culture of voluntary donation fosters community spirit, solidarity, and a sense of shared responsibility for the well-being of our fellow citizens,” she added.

Dr. Cooper also underscored the critical role of blood donation in addressing challenges related to newborn and maternity care, highlighting its role in reducing maternal mortality rates.

The Chief Medical Officer of Liberia explained that voluntary non-paid blood donation is the safest and most effective way to ensure a steady and reliable supply of blood.

"Unlike commercial or family replacement donations, voluntary donors are motivated purely by the desire to help others, which significantly reduces the risk of infections and ensures the highest quality of blood,” she said.

Dr. Cooper further states that creating a culture of voluntary blood donation in Liberia requires togetherness from all sectors, citing that it involves raising awareness, dispelling myths, and fostering a deep sense of community responsibility.

Making remarks on behalf of the World Health Organization (WHO), Regional Director, Mr. Moses K. Jeuronlon stressed the critical role blood transfusion plays in the provision of lifesaving healthcare.

He noted that vulnerable people, such as mothers during childbirth, under-nourished and malaria affected children, victims of trauma and accidents, and patients suffering from sickle cell and other chronic diseases, particularly benefit from this care.

The WHO Regional Director’s proxy expressed the world health body’s gratitude to blood, plasma, and platelet donors in the African region and the world for their life saving donations.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health (MOH), through the National Blood Safety Program certificated several non-paid blood donor institutions in commemoration of National Blood Safety Day.

The institutions awarded include, the Open Bible Junior & Senior High School, Bassa High, Monrovia Vocational Training Center, LOIC Vocational Training School, and John Flomo Barkalu High, Lofa County Baptist High, and Zorzor Lutheran High, amongst others.

Also, Bong, Nimba, Lofa, Margibi, and Grand Bassa counties were certificated for the highest blood donations and in recognition of their outstanding contribution to blood safety and availability in Liberia.