This article uses the case of Trinidad and Tobago to examine the history and current state of blood transfusion services in the Caribbean and to present early results of an initiative for improving blood safety and adequacy in the region.
Based on a comparative study of blood donation over a seven-year period, it is evident that innovative methods of donor recruitment are necessary if the blood supply is to keep pace with the increasing demand.
ABSTRACT
Objective: The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of a public appeal to encourage voluntary blood donation by comparing the pattern of blood donations in 2000 and 2007.