Singapore is going to need a lot more blood by 2030, says Health Minister

Minister for Health Gan Kim Yong highlighted the increasing need for blood donations as a result of Singapore's growing and ageing population, in a speech for the 11th World Health Blood Donor Day on Saturday (June 7). Gan said that by the year 2030, the number of elderly citizens in Singapore would have tripled to 900,000, which means donations would have to increase by three to five percent annually in order to keep up with the demand.  He added that in addition to the three existing blood donation centres at Outram, Dhoby Ghaut and Woodlands, two more satellite blood donation centres will be set up by 2018, bringing the total number of blood donation centres to five.  Located in high density areas, the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) in its interaction with the public, said that what potential blood donors valued the most were "convenience and accessibility". In his speech, Gan also expressed his appreciation for the organisers as well as volunteers for their hard work, and reiterated that the National Blood Programme would not be possible without them. For more information on how to donate, visit DonorWeb. Photo: Singapore Red Cross