Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

A safe supply of blood and the knowledge, skill, and resources for the appropriate use of blood are essential for medical services. Many problems are faced in the development of transfusion services in low- or medium-income countries (LMICs). Unfortunately, in many countries, providing safe blood is made more difficult by a lack of blood donors and the high frequency of transfusion-transmissible infections. The problems are compounded by the frequent need for urgent life-saving transfusions. This article examines the problems in supply, safety, and use of blood and how they are being addressed in LMICs, predominantly focusing on sub-Saharan Africa.

Original publication

DOI

10.1016/j.hoc.2015.11.011

Type

Journal article

Journal

Hematol Oncol Clin North Am

Publication Date

04/2016

Volume

30

Pages

477 - 495

Keywords

Blood donor, Blood transfusion, Transfusion-transmitted infection, Use of blood, Blood Donors, Blood Safety, Blood Transfusion, Developing Countries, Humans, Quality Improvement, Transfusion Reaction