Ass.Prof. Dr. Nguyen Anh Tri, head of the National Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion (NIHBT), said that in recent years, blood donation campaigns in Vietnam have gained remarkable achievements. In 2006, the country collected 420,668 blood units, 59 percent of which was donated by volunteers. But at present, less than one third of the demand for blood is being satisfied, and most hospitals are facing blood shortages.

According to Mr Tri, blood volume collected from donors across the country is only sufficient for emergency cases but insufficient for high-quality treatment.

To raise blood reserves, he said it is essential to implement comprehensive measures and encourage people to actively take part in blood donation campaigns.