Blood donors in Sweden get a text message whenever they save a life

According to WHO, 90% of people who are eligible to donate blood are not currently doing so. However, blood donations have a short shelf-life, so regular donors are essential to secure a constant supply.

Statistics show that one donated unit of whole blood can save up to 3 lives, through separation and use of its components. So, you can save 3 lives every time you donate blood.

Sweden has developed a system that sends an automated SMS to blood donors when their blood is used to save a life.

This system could help countries like UK, which have seen decrease in the number of donors.

“We simply can’t ignore the fact that there has been a stark reduction in the number of new donors coming forward, a trend seen across the world,” said Jon Latham from the UK NHS Blood and Transplant donor services. “While we can meet the needs of patients now, it’s important we strengthen the donor base for the future.”