As the war in Ukraine continues into its fourth year, the demand for blood donations remains alarmingly high. Medical professionals understand the necessity of having a steady supply of blood to save both military personnel and civilian patients.

This week in Odesa, the Primary Health Care Center No. 16 held its twelfth blood donation drive since the onset of the war. Around twenty donors visited the blood transfusion station, ready to contribute their strength to save lives. A single blood donation can save up to three lives.

“We have created a group of regular donors at our medical facility. New participants join us each time, and we encourage our friends, relatives, and patients to donate blood. We are ready to donate every two months — it’s safe, beneficial, and, of course, it is crucial for our defenders right now,” said Hanna Pavlega, director of Primary Health Care Center No. 16.

Blood donation offers numerous benefits:

• prevention of cardiovascular diseases, thrombosis, heart attacks, and strokes;
• reduction of the risk of various types of cancer, especially those related to excess iron;
• renewal of the blood system and overall health;
• regular donors tend to live 3-5 years longer;
• the ability to save others' lives.

Currently, blood donation is a vital contribution to Ukraine's defense capabilities.

Up-to-date information about the needs for blood donations in Odesa's medical facilities is shared on the Telegram channels “Odesa. Official” and “Donor Odesa” with support from the Department of Information and Digital Solutions of the Odessa City Council.

Since the start of the war, approximately 13,500 blood donations have been facilitated by the "Donor Odesa" project, saving thousands of lives!

The “Donor Odesa” project actively participates in the annual charity initiative “Week of Good Deeds”.