Blood safety

Blood and blood products are essential to modern healthcare, supporting surgeries, trauma care, cancer treatment, and the management of chronic diseases. Ensuring the safety and adequacy of the blood supply is therefore a critical public health priority. Risks arise from infectious disease transmission, donor eligibility challenges, storage and handling practices, and supply chain vulnerabilities.

The complexity of blood safety lies in managing these risks while also maintaining a stable, sufficient supply. Emerging pathogens, evolving donor demographics, and technological changes in collection and processing create constant pressures for vigilance and adaptation. Regulatory agencies and blood operators must safeguard safety while preserving public trust, and healthcare systems must balance the ethical, logistical, and economic dimensions of blood services. Civil society, patient groups, and the media further influence perceptions and expectations.

Risk sciences offer tools to evaluate both probability and impact across the system. Epidemiological modeling, risk-benefit analysis, and risk tolerability frameworks help identify where interventions are most needed and feasible. Evidence-based approaches also support transparent communication to donors, patients, and the public, reinforcing trust in blood services.

RSI is deeply engaged in advancing blood safety, with the expertise and experience required to help strengthen national systems and international best practices in this sector.