BLOOD-TRANSFUSION IN DEVELOPING-COUNTRIES - PROBLEMS, PRIORITIES AND PRACTICALITIES

The acute medical services could not exist without blood transfusions- life-savers in many situations. But transfusions can also be a quick a nd easy route for the transmission of infectious agents such as HIV, H BV, HCV and malaria. Infection through blood supply is a major issue i n all countries but particularly in those with economic constraints wh ich limit safety. This study was carried out in India (March-May 1997) and involved centres in Delhi, Calcutta and Vellore. It examined many aspects of blood transfusion including donor screening, use of profes sional donors, blood testing and criteria for blood use(1). The many p roblems in Indian blood transfusion services are mirrored in other cou ntries. Here we examine the problems, priorities and practicalities of blood transfusion particularly in developing countries.