IBTS publishes 2007 Annual Report

Monday 1st December 2008

Increased usage of red cells and platelets in 2007

The Irish Blood Transfusion Service published its 2007 Annual Report today (Monday). Chairperson Maura McGrath expressed her appreciation for the donors who make it possible for the IBTS to supply patients in hospitals.  “Blood donors save lives. Their unique generosity is acknowledged and deeply appreciated, “she said.

IBTS Chief Executive Andy Kelly said that there was a 1.16% increase in the use of red cells and an 8.7% increase in the use of platelets in 2007. “There has been a 60% increase in the use of platelets over the past five years.  Forecasting future demand requires us to review the projected number of new cancer cases expected to arise in Ireland over the next decade and devise a strategy to deal with the resulting demand in platelets.

Mr Kelly added that the priority of the IBTS was the continuous supply of safe blood and blood products to patients in Irish hospitals. “In 2007, there were 151,896 units of blood collected and while maintaining the blood supply proved a challenge as always, the IBTS did not have to make a nationwide appeal in 2007.”  

Medical and Scientific Director, Dr William Murphy added: “In 2007, considerable effort was expended in addressing the continually changing threat of infectious disease contamination in blood for transfusion.   A new prion filter trial commenced in conjunction with Cork University Hospital.  The IBTS remains the only blood service in the world to have progressed field trials of prion filters,” said Dr Murphy.

“The IBTS also embarked on a number of significant developments during the year which will enhance the service provided to patients.  The Haemachromatosis Programme, the validation of single donor NAT testing on TIGRIS, the introduction of Orbisac for platelet production using platelet additive solution rather than plasma and BOSS a query tool which will provide much needed management information from Progesa in a timely manner are just some of those projects in hand during 2007.”

ENDS