People donate blood for a voluntary campaign held in HCM City on April 9 to mark National Voluntary Blood Donation Day. VNA/VNS Photo

HCM CITY — A blood donation campaign began in HCM City on Tuesday to mark National Voluntary Blood Donation Day, April 7.

It was organised by the Steering Committee for Voluntary Blood Donation in HCM City.

HCM City has taken the lead in the voluntary blood donation movement and has pioneered digital transformation in donation mobilisation, Dương Anh Đức, deputy chairman of the city People’s Committee, said.

The city has invested in modern equipment and facilities for processing and distributing blood to ensure sufficient supply for medical emergencies, treatment and storage, Đức, also head of the steering committee, said.

It has for years supported neighbouring provinces in addressing blood shortages, he said.

Many voluntary campaigns and events have been carried out to encourage blood donation in the community, he said.

He called on authorities at all levels to encourage voluntary blood donation movements, take measures to increase the number of repeat and regular blood donors and form groups and clubs for people with rare blood types.

The city has set a target of collecting 250,000 bags of blood this year to ensure adequate supply for treatment, including emergencies, at more than 150 healthcare establishments.

Last year it collected more than 278,900 bags, ensuring enough supply for local hospitals and also those in some provinces in the Cửu Long (Mekong) Delta and Central Highlands. —VNS