Nearly half of Dutch people (47%) don't know their own blood type. Awareness of the Netherlands' blood supply is also low, according to a recent survey by Sanquin, the national blood supply organization.
Conducted among 1,200 respondents, the study reveals near-universal recognition that blood donors are vital to healthcare. Impressively, 45% expressed interest in donating blood—yet only 2.5% of the Dutch population actually does.
The gap stems largely from fear of blood, needles, and fainting. More than 10% cited time constraints, even though donations take just 30 minutes.
For details on blood types, supply, and Sanquin's open days, visit www.sanquin.nl/opendag.