Today is National Voluntary Blood Donation Day: Artificial blood to reach market by 2030?

KOCHI: Artificial blood, designed to save lives during wars and natural disasters, is expected to reach the market by 2030. Considering the rising need in such situations, countries like the US, Japan, and the UK have intensified research. The artificial blood developed in Japan has a purple colour.

Like natural blood, artificial blood also contains red blood cells and haemoglobin. Its main role is to carry oxygen throughout the body and remove waste. However, artificial blood is primarily designed as an oxygen carrier.

Japan has been testing artificial blood on animals since 2019 and on humans since 2020. It is aiming for commercial release by 2030. The main component is purified haemoglobin taken from humans or animals, which is then developed into red blood cells to make it function like blood. The process is complex and expensive. Even though voluntary blood donations increase every year, the growing demand keeps creating shortages.

Universal and easy to store

Artificial blood, which does not contain white blood cells or platelets, can be given to people of any blood group. It can be stored at room temperature for up to two years without damage, and there is no risk of infection. It can also be safely given to patients whose bodies reject donated human blood. Once health improves, it helps overcome natural blood shortages. Another major advantage is that it can be stored even in areas without blood banks.

Annual blood collection

Worldwide: 11.85 crore units

Kerala: 590,000 units