Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
According to a World Health Organization (WHO) report based on data from 168 countries representing 97% of the global population, there have been significant advances in blood donation and safety, with over 85% of blood donations worldwide now coming from voluntary unpaid donors, considered the safest and most sustainable source.
Despite this progress, the report notes that shortages and inadequate access to safe blood persist in many low- and middle-income countries. Weak governance and unsustainable financing are identified as major obstacles to effective national blood services in these regions.
A reliable blood supply remains essential for treating a wide range of medical conditions, including severe bleeding during childbirth, emergency surgeries, cancer treatments, chronic blood disorders, and severe anemia. Donated plasma is also used to produce medicines for bleeding disorders and immune deficiencies, which often remain inaccessible or unaffordable in many areas.
The WHO study examines all stages of the transfusion process—from donor recruitment and blood collection to laboratory testing, clinical use, and access to plasma-derived medical products. The report highlights efforts to diversify plasma collection and strengthen global supply chains for these essential medicines.
Overall, the report concludes that achieving equitable access to safe blood and blood products will require sustained political commitment and robust health systems to support universal health coverage and patient safety.