Canadian Blood Services is facing a critical shortage of blood supply, with stocks falling nearly 20% since June. The organization is urgently calling on Canadians to donate, warning that the decline could affect hospital surgeries and emergency care. Blood donations typically dip in summer due to vacations and heat, but this year's drop is sharper than usual. The agency says it needs about 1,000 additional donations in the coming weeks to stabilize inventory. Most blood types are affected, with O-negative—the universal donor type—at particularly low levels. Hospitals rely on a steady supply for trauma cases, cancer treatments, and scheduled surgeries. Canadian Blood Services is working with local clinics to extend hours and host special drives. Officials urge eligible donors to book appointments soon.
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Canadian Blood Services Reports 20% Drop in Supply, Urges Donations
Published July 26, 2026 at 8:32 AM UTC