World Blood Donor Day

What Is World Blood Donor Day?

June 14 marks "World Blood Donor Day," jointly established by the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and the International Society of Blood Transfusion, observed annually since 2005. The date was chosen to mark the birthday (June 14, 1868) of Karl Landsteiner, the Austrian medical scientist who discovered blood groups.

The Importance of Blood Donation

Blood cannot be manufactured artificially, and blood transfusions are essential in countless medical situations, including surgery, accidents, cancer treatment, and leukemia. In Japan, more than five million people donate blood each year, but declining birth rates and an aging population have raised concerns about a future shortage of donors. The decline in donations among younger people in particular is seen as a challenge, making this day an important opportunity to raise awareness about blood donation.

Consider Donating Blood

Anyone in good health aged 16 or older (for whole blood donation) can typically participate, subject to age and weight requirements. There are different types of donation, including whole blood and component donation, and the process usually takes between 30 minutes and an hour. You can easily take part at a Japanese Red Cross donation center or blood donation bus. Your blood could one day help save someone's life.