Czech blood services add donor incentives and tackle shortfall amid summer demand

AGEL Transfusion Service marked World Blood Donor Day with two events in Bruntál (June 12) and Šumperk (June 15). Participants who donated received a canvas tote bag, small gifts and a free body‑composition measurement, with organisers urging the public to help maintain blood supplies before the high‑demand summer months.

The transfusion department of the Liberec Regional Hospital reports a modest but persistent donor deficit of 50–100 donors each year. With roughly 6,000 registered donors, the centre gains about 300‑350 new donors annually while 400‑450 leave the register. To offset ageing donor cohorts, staff are engaging schools and recruiting young people, noting that 64 % of first‑time donors in Liberec are under 35. The hospital aims to replace the estimated 100 donors lost each year due to age or health reasons.