There's a shortage of blood for patients. Even transfusions for children are being postponed.

Blood supplies in Cyprus are insufficient, and scheduled transfusions in thalassemia treatment centers are postponed almost daily. The problem also affects children who need to receive blood regularly.

The Cyprus Thalassemia Federation appeals to all people who can donate blood to register at blood donation centers. Polish citizenship does not preclude donorship. However, the final decision is always made by medical personnel after conducting an interview and basic tests.

There is a shortage of blood for people with thalassemia

The President of the Cyprus Thalassemia Federation, Miltos Miltiadous, said that transfusions are currently being postponed in almost all centres treating this disease.

The situation of the youngest patients is particularly concerning. There are approximately 70 children with thalassaemia in Cyprus. In recent days, some have had to wait for scheduled transfusions due to insufficient blood supply.

In the case of children, properly conducted treatment is important not only for their current well-being, but also for their development and later quality of life.

Patients receive less blood

The problem isn't just postponements. There are also situations where a patient who needs two units of blood only receives one.

For people with thalassemia major, transfusion isn't a one-time, emergency procedure. It's a regular part of treatment. Some patients receive blood every two weeks, while others receive it even once a week.

Delaying a transfusion by a few days means the patient must live longer with a lower hemoglobin level. This can impact their well-being, daily activities, learning, and work.

They don't know until the last minute whether they will receive blood.

The Federation receives messages every day from patients who do not know whether their planned transfusion will take place.

Some people are informed that their procedure may be postponed. Others must wait until noon to confirm whether a sufficient amount of blood will be available for them.

Uncertainty makes planning work and family life difficult. It also accompanies the stress associated with delaying regular treatment.

Where can you donate blood?

The Blood Centre operates permanent and temporary blood donation points in all districts controlled by the Republic of Cyprus.

Check the hours before departure

The Blood Center also organizes additional collection events in towns, businesses, offices, schools, and other institutions. Their locations and times vary each week.

The current schedule can be checked on the official website:

Poles can also donate blood.

Polish citizenship does not constitute an obstacle to donating blood in the Republic of Cyprus. However, the donor must meet the health requirements in effect on the date of registration.

Before sampling, staff conducts a medical interview and a basic health assessment. Temporary exclusion may apply to individuals who are ill, taking certain medications, have recently undergone procedures, or have traveled to regions where certain infectious diseases are prevalent.

If you're unsure whether you can donate, it's best to call the nearest donation center in advance. It's a good idea to bring your ID. Don't arrive on an empty stomach—before donating blood, eat a light meal and stay hydrated.

Each donation can help several people

Donated blood is separated into its components, including red blood cells, plasma, and platelets. This allows a single donation to be used to treat several different patients.

Blood is needed not only by people with thalassemia, but also by patients undergoing surgery, those undergoing cancer treatment, accident victims, and those requiring emergency transfusions.

However, the current appeal is particularly important because shortages have already begun to affect the regular treatment of people who cannot function properly without transfusions.

Sources: Cyprus Thalassemia Federation, Politis, Blood Centre of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Cyprus, Gov.cy portal