Sardinia faces blood shortage as summer demand rises

Sardinia is facing a critical blood shortage as the summer season increases demand. The region's annual requirement is estimated between 105,000 and 110,000 units, while local collection typically only reaches 78,000 to 85,000 units.

The shortage is driven by a rise in population due to tourism, an increase in surgical procedures, and more frequent road accidents. Additionally, there is a constant need for blood to treat chronic patients, specifically those with thalassemia and cancer.

Avis Regionale Sardegna has issued an urgent appeal for donations to prevent the shortage from compromising emergency services and essential therapies. Regional president Vincenzo Dore noted that hospitals are currently struggling and that the gap is being filled by supplies from other regions, which are not always delivered in a timely manner.