KUWAIT CITY, May 27: Minister of Health Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi on Monday announced that the Kuwait Central Blood Bank (CBB) attracted over 90,000 donors in the past year, who contributed more than 190,000 blood products including platelets, plasma, and red blood cells.

Dr. Al-Awadhi made the remarks during a ceremony commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Central Blood Bank, in conjunction with World Blood Donor Day, and a national event honoring donors for their vital contributions.

He noted that the CBB also supplied approximately 150,000 blood units in 2024 to support healthcare for cancer and thalassemia patients, as well as those requiring emergency care across hospitals nationwide.

Established in 1965, the Central Blood Bank was the region’s first integrated national blood transfusion center. Dr. Al-Awadhi highlighted its pioneering role as a launch pad for a comprehensive institutional blood donation system in Kuwait and the wider region.

He emphasized the Bank’s longstanding commitment to international standards, noting that it was among the first in the region to receive accreditation from the American Association of Blood Banks (AABB) in 1989. The CBB has also earned recognition from the International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT) and the College of American Pathologists (CAP).

“These accreditations reflect our commitment to rigorous scientific and quality standards,” Dr. Al-Awadhi said. “With advanced technologies in place, we’ve enhanced efficiency in blood utilization and ensured high-quality transfusion services that reduce waste and increase patient readiness.”

He added that the Blood Bank and its branches have organized thousands of donation campaigns in recent years, engaging various sectors of society and fostering a national culture of voluntary donation.

The minister reaffirmed the government’s continued support for the blood donation system through ongoing infrastructure development, laboratory modernization, and training of national medical personnel to ensure sustainability, quality, and efficiency.

Also speaking at the event, Dr. Reem Al-Radwan, Director of the Blood Transfusion Services Department at the Ministry of Health, reflected on the Blood Bank’s crucial role during key moments in Kuwait’s history, including its response during the Iraqi invasion and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr. Al-Radwan said the CBB continues to organize strategic blood donation campaigns to maintain a safe and sustainable supply for hospitals. She also announced the launch of the Blood Bank’s 60th Anniversary Campaign, aimed at reinforcing the life-saving importance of blood donation.