Muscat governorate needs about 120 units of blood daily and over 6,000 units monthly. However, blood donations typically drop during Ramadan. To address this issue, the Department of Blood Bank Services has issued an urgent call for blood and platelet donations. Encouraging blood donations during this time is crucial to meet the rising demand.
Salim al Habsi, a teacher, suggests a practical solution for encouraging blood donations: setting up mobile blood donation units near mosques and iftar tents. These units could provide a convenient and accessible location for people to donate after breaking their fast. He also encourages employers to support and promote blood donations within their organizations.
Mariam al Balushi, a homemaker, highlights the role of social media in encouraging blood donations. She suggests that community leaders should actively spread awareness about the need for donations. Additionally, Mariam proposes organizing donation challenges where companies or groups compete to donate the most units. Sharing success stories of lives saved by blood donations can motivate others to take action.
Ahmed al Hinai, a businessman, addresses the common misconception that donating blood while fasting weakens the donor. To overcome this, he suggests organizing post-iftar donation drives. Awareness campaigns should focus on educating the public that donating blood does not invalidate fasting. Religious scholars can also help by emphasizing the rewards of saving lives during Ramadan.
John Carter, an engineer, suggests offering small incentives, such as free health check-ups or tokens of appreciation, to motivate people to donate blood. By partnering with local restaurants to offer post-donation refreshments, centers can attract more donors and boost participation in encouraging blood donations.
Rajesh Kumar, a salesman, shares his experience with community-driven blood donation camps in India. He believes that a similar approach could work in Muscat, where community groups and religious organizations collaborate to organize group donations after iftar. Additionally, providing transportation to donation centers would make it easier for people to contribute.
Zainab Shaikh, a social worker, notes that many women hesitate to donate due to myths about weakness. She suggests encouraging blood donations through targeted awareness programs aimed at women. Placing donation centers near shopping malls or Ramadan markets could make it more convenient for people to donate while out.
In conclusion, encouraging blood donations during Ramadan requires a collective effort from the community. By implementing mobile units, raising awareness, and providing incentives, Muscat can ensure a steady supply of blood. These efforts will help meet the growing demand for blood donations throughout the holy month.
