How Climate Change is Accelerating Demand for Blood Donations While Hindering Collection Efforts

As extreme weather becomes more common, climate change is placing additional strain on the blood donation system, putting lives at risk. A groundbreaking study from Australia has highlighted the challenges that come with extreme weather events.

Conducted by the Australian Red Cross and the University of the Sunshine Coast, the research reveals that vital blood supplies can be disrupted during disasters. For example, during February’s Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, Lifeblood, responsible for blood collection nationwide, had to cancel 3,500 donation appointments. Over 20 donor centers closed across Queensland and New South Wales, echoing struggles from earlier disasters like the floods in 2022.

Dr. Elvina Viennet, an author of the study, points out that increased weather disruptions threaten blood availability, directly impacting hospitals during emergencies. For surgeries, cancer therapies, and complications during pregnancy, ready access to blood is essential. Donors typically respond quickly after events like earthquakes, but the same urgency is often lacking after floods or bushfires, which can lead to disease outbreaks.

Climate change increases the risk of bloodborne diseases, making some donations unsuitable. Reports show at least 42 cases of blood transfusions resulting in West Nile Virus transmission. Dr. Viennet highlights that higher temperatures and humidity create better conditions for mosquitoes, which spread these viruses.

Associate Professor Helen Faddy, the lead researcher, notes that hot weather can exacerbate issues like hydration and blood pressure for donors and pose psychological challenges. Such stress can make donors less willing to give blood, further complicating the situation.

Shifts in climate patterns might also increase the demand for blood due to health conditions worsened by heat — like complications in pregnancy and cardiovascular diseases. As migration due to rising sea levels creates a more diverse population, there’s a pressing need for more donors from various backgrounds.

To address these evolving challenges, Lifeblood is adapting its approach. They are exploring new ways to ensure blood safety, including innovative pathogen elimination methods. Plans to use drones for blood delivery are being discussed, inspired by successful implementations in parts of Africa.

Ultimately, building a resilient infrastructure is crucial. With floods becoming increasingly frequent, Lifeblood is developing backup plans to safeguard blood supplies and maintain operational integrity.

This ongoing research is critical, especially in today’s changing climate. For more insights on the impact of climate change on health systems, refer to the detailed studies published in Lancet Planetary Health.

Check out this related article: Discover How National Geographic is Spotlighting New Zealand’s Regions in the Fight Against Climate Change

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