Today, 14 June, marks World Blood Donor Day, which is celebrated annually under the auspices of the World Health Organisation.
In 2026, the date is marked under the motto "A drop of humanity. Give blood. Save lives.", a message that places solidarity, compassion and collective responsibility at the heart of blood donation.
Every year, this day pays tribute to the donors who help save lives and highlights the importance of ensuring that safe blood is available to those who need it. Blood is essential to the response of healthcare systems in a wide range of situations, including emergencies, childbirth, surgery, cancer treatment and other medical conditions that depend on safe and timely transfusions.
The Portuguese Association of Physiotherapists joins in marking this occasion, emphasising the importance of blood donation to the healthcare system’s response and recognising the value of all those who contribute to this chain of care and solidarity.
As healthcare professionals, physiotherapists can also play an important role in raising awareness, providing information and encouraging patients to understand the importance of giving blood, where appropriate, thereby helping to improve health literacy and foster a sense of collective responsibility regarding this ongoing need.
On this World Blood Donor Day, the Portuguese Association of Physiotherapists joins the call for more people to find out more, become blood donors and contribute to a vital response that ensures the safety and continuity of healthcare.
Find out how you can give blood or provide information to potential donors here.