TPAG, Thalassemics India release paper highlighting blood safety concerns

New Delhi: Addressing the need for safe blood and transfusion is crucial for patient safety, preventing infections, maintaining quality, enhancing donor confidence, and making a positive global health impact. Commemorating World Blood Donor Day, TPAG and Thalassemics India released a comprehensive position paper to highlight issues like transfusion-transmitted infections (TTIs) concerning the safety of blood, especially for thalassemic patients who rely on frequent transfusions for their survival.

The paper was prepared based on ASSOCHAM’s Roundtable discussion held in December 2022, in collaboration with TPAG and Thalassemics India.

During the round table, Dr Anil Kumar, Additional Dy Director General, Directorate General of Health Service, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Govt. of India, stated, “Transfusion-transmitted infections possess an ongoing notable challenge for our healthcare system. Although the DGHS is dedicated to implementing a national thalassemia control programme, we are also actively committed to encouraging adopting cutting-edge technologies, voluntary blood donation, and addressing the critical gaps in the system to transform the landscape of blood transfusion services, instilling hope, and resilience in the lives of thalassemia patients.”

The paper not only identifies the key concerns and challenges related to blood safety in India but also provides concrete recommendations for the inclusion of relevant guidelines and the formulation of uniform legislation for blood transfusion services (BTS) to regulate safe blood transfusion.

Adding to this Anubha Taneja-Mukherjee, Member Secretary, Thalassemia Patients Advocacy Group said, “World Blood Donor Day serves as a reminder of the crucial role that blood donation plays in saving lives, particularly for individuals with thalassemia. However, on this occasion, it is crucial to also address the gaps in the current blood transfusion system by key policymakers, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders. By incorporating the recommendations into the guidelines for BTS and formulating uniform legislation, the nation can aim to regulate safe blood transfusion services and improve patient safety ultimately, can ensure the well-being and longevity of thalassemia patients in India.”

“We have the understanding, advanced technologies, and responsibility to protect thalassemia patients through safe blood transfusion practices. By embracing advanced screening methods, advocating for mandatory NAT testing, and implementing extended RBC antigen-matching, we can revolutionise the landscape of blood transfusion services. It is within our power to protect lives and eliminate the needless risks posed by transfusion-transmitted infections,” concluded Taneja-Mukherjee.