Blood Donation Crisis in Hungary: Politician Raises Concerns Over Plasma Donations

Amidst concerns of a blood shortage, Hungarian politician István Szabadi raises questions about the nation's blood donation system and the increasing reliance on plasma donations for financial gain. In a recent parliamentary address, Szabadi highlighted a significant drop in blood donations, a trend he links to the lack of adequate incentives. "Blood donations have decreased from 420,000 to 350,000," Szabadi stated, emphasizing the simultaneous growth of plasma donation centers. He criticized the lack of transparency in plasma donation, suggesting it might be overshadowing traditional blood drives. Szabadi's concerns underscore the need for a comprehensive review of the blood donation system and the potential for improved incentives to encourage more participation. The government's response to his concerns is yet to be seen.