Kodagu district is grappling with a severe blood shortage, raising concerns among healthcare authorities. The district hospital in Madikeri, which operates the only blood bank, faces a daily demand of 100 units of 350 ml, driven by 20-25 cases requiring transfusions. Half of the blood is utilized for childbirth and anaemia cases in women, while accidents and other emergencies consume the rest.
Blood demand in Kodagu has surged from 200 units per month to 450-500 units in two years due to hospital expansions, increased patient inflow, and a growing population of out-of-state workers. Agricultural activities and fewer blood donation camps have further strained collection efforts.
Dr. Karumbaiah, head of the district’s blood bank, emphasized the health benefits of regular blood donation, including potential anti-cancer properties. He called for monthly camps at ten locations, estimating that 30-40 donors per camp could alleviate the crisis. Associations and organisations are urged to take the lead in organizing donation drives, as occasional voluntary donors fall short of meeting the district’s growing needs.
The blood bank offers full medical support for camp organisers and utilizes advanced technology to preserve blood for up to 35 days. Authorities appeal to residents to step forward, highlighting that lives depend on timely donations.
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