Message from Health Canada
June 13, 2024 | Ottawa, ON
As we observe National Blood Donor Week and approach World Blood Donor Day on June 14, we celebrate the invaluable contributions of blood, plasma, and blood product donors across Canada. These selfless individuals play a crucial role in saving lives and ensuring our healthcare system remains robust.
In Canada, the demand for blood and its components continues to be significant, particularly among diverse communities. Donors from Asian, African, Caribbean, Middle Eastern, Indigenous, and mixed ancestries are especially encouraged to contribute, as they possess unique abilities to support patients in need. Over half of Canadians will require blood or its products at some point in their lives, underscoring the ongoing need for new donors.
Our country maintains one of the world’s safest blood systems, upheld by rigorous standards outlined in Health Canada’s Food and Drugs Act and Blood Regulations. Ensuring inclusivity in the donation process is paramount to bolstering this system. More donations translate to more lives saved and improved access to critical healthcare services nationwide.
To strengthen Canada’s blood system, the Government allocates $5 million annually to Canadian Blood Services (CBS) for research and development. This funding has been pivotal in understanding and addressing barriers to donation within South Asian and African communities. Additionally, advancements in stem cell research funded by this initiative promise enhanced treatments for conditions like leukaemia and lymphoma.
This week, we urge everyone to consider donating blood, plasma, or blood products and express heartfelt gratitude to all past and current donors. Your generosity saves lives and strengthens our healthcare fabric.
Honourable Mark Holland, P.C., M.P.
Honourable Ya’ara Saks, P.C., M.P.
For more information on how you can contribute, visit Canada.ca/donateblood.