British health authorities have issued an urgent appeal for one million regular blood donors to prevent a nationwide health crisis that could escalate to a critical “red alert” status.
The National Health Service Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) has launched a large-scale donation campaign to address persistently low blood supplies.
According to a report by the Metro newspaper, cited by Al Arabiya.net, a “yellow alert” was issued last year due to declining blood stocks. However, NHS officials say supplies have remained dangerously low ever since.
Over the past year, fewer than 800,000 people donated blood—just about 2% of the eligible adult population—falling short of the 5,000 daily donations needed to meet national demand. In addition to this shortfall, more donors are required to replace those who can no longer donate due to age or health issues.
Despite a rise in blood donor registrations, only 24% of those signed up actually followed through with donations. NHSBT is now urging the public to act swiftly and consistently, warning that without immediate action, the UK could face a “red alert” scenario, where blood shortages pose a direct threat to public health.
