After a record in 2023, Hemoam reinforces campaign to increase platelet donations

intensification

In 2024, the goal is to maintain 70 monthly donations

Manaus (AM) – After a significant increase of 359% in apheresis donations in 2023, the Amazonas Hospital Foundation of Hematology and Hemotherapy (Hemoam) wants to further intensify the presence of platelet donors at the blood center.

In 2022, 200 donations via apheresis were recorded. In 2023, the number jumped to 800 bags collected, according to data from the Hemoam Blood Cycle Department. In 2024, the goal is to maintain 70 monthly donations.

The significant increase prompted the creation of the Apheresis Collection Sub-Management, which is now working towards the opening of Hemoam Hospital, which will require a greater demand for blood components due to its service potential.

The deputy manager of Collection by Aféresis, Jackeline Gimenez, explains that the procedure is very safe and similar to a conventional donation. “There is no risk of contamination because the blood only circulates through a plastic, disposable kit that is fitted inside the machine responsible for retaining the platelets”, she explains.

Max da Costa, 55 years old, is a platelet donor and says that donation is already part of his lifestyle. Platelets are components of the blood that help control bleeding and benefit many patients, especially patients undergoing cancer treatment, trauma victims, heart surgery patients or bleeding patients.

“People say it’s ‘addictive’ and it really is. It’s addictive knowing that you’re there making a difference, saving lives. It’s a great pleasure for me to be here, I’m a ‘diamond’ blood donor and a frequent platelet donor,”

said Max da Costa.

The process

The method used to donate platelets is called apheresis. In apheresis, through a needle placed in the vein of the donor’s arm, the blood is pumped into equipment which will separate part of the red blood cells or platelets for donation. The equipment will retain only the necessary cells, returning the rest to the donor.

The entire process lasts between 90 minutes and 2 hours and the replacement of platelets in the body is quick, in just 48 hours all cells are replaced.

Basic requirements

Anyone who donates conventional blood can donate platelets by apheresis. To do this, simply show up or call the Hemoam Social Service department (3655-0166/0271) and make an appointment.

It is necessary to have donated blood at least once (the last donation cannot exceed six months). In addition, you must be between 18 and 60 years old, weigh more than 60 kilos and not have used aspirin, AAS or anti-inflammatories in the three days before donating. Women who have had children cannot be platelet donors.

Between conventional blood donation and apheresis platelet donation, an interval of 30 days is recommended and the platelet donor can make up to 12 donations per year.

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