Portugal faces blood reserve shortages in Algarve and Lisbon

The Portuguese Federation of Benevolent Blood Donors (FEPODABES) has issued an alert regarding critical blood reserve levels, particularly in the Algarve and Lisbon/Vale do Tejo regions. The shortage is attributed to high consumption rates coupled with a declining trend in donations throughout 2024 and 2025.

In Santarém, the District Hospital is facing severe shortages that may force the cancellation of scheduled surgeries and treatments. The Lezíria Local Health Unit confirmed it is experiencing high pressure on reserves, a situation it describes as transversal to the national hospital network. While the institution is managing available blood components to prioritize urgent cases, it noted that programmed transfusional activity may require occasional adjustments.

FEPODABES president Alberto Mota stated that the reduction in reserves is part of a continuous downward trend in donations observed over recent years.