[Safety of blood transfusion at the international level. The role of WHO]

Transfus Clin Biol. 2006 Sep;13(3):200-2. doi: 10.1016/j.tracli.2006.07.007. Epub 2006 Sep 26.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Blood safety is an international public health challenge, particularly since the emergence of HIV AIDS. Recognizing the gross disparities between countries in the adequacy of national blood supplies and the risks arising from poorly organized services, particularly in developing countries, the World Health Organization has developed a global strategy for blood safety and availability. Dr N. Dhingra, coordinator, blood transfusion safety, WHO Headquarters, and Dr V. Hafner, focal point for blood safety in the WHO regional office for Europe, present the main features of this strategy: well-organized, nationally coordinated blood transfusion services with quality systems in all areas; the collection of blood only from voluntary non-remunerated blood donors from low-risk populations; the quality-assured testing of all donated blood; the safe and appropriate use of blood and blood products; and global collaboration for blood safety. WHO's programs, some difficulties encountered and outcomes are also described in this article.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Allied Health Personnel / psychology
  • Blood Transfusion / legislation & jurisprudence
  • Blood Transfusion / standards*
  • Developing Countries
  • Disease Transmission, Infectious / prevention & control
  • Europe
  • Fees and Charges / legislation & jurisprudence
  • Global Health*
  • HIV Infections / prevention & control
  • HIV Infections / transmission
  • Humans
  • Infection Control / legislation & jurisprudence
  • Infection Control / standards
  • Mass Screening / legislation & jurisprudence
  • Mass Screening / standards
  • Motivation
  • Quality Assurance, Health Care
  • World Health Organization*