Blood donation in Brandenburg: Red alert! This is how you save lives!

Blood donation in Brandenburg: Red alert! This is how you save lives!

The need for blood donations in Germany remains alarming. On June 20, 2025, the German Red Cross (DRK) warned that the availability of blood supplies in Brandenburg had fallen dangerously. Currently, the inventory for several blood groups is only 20%. With a daily need for around 14,000 donations for accident victims, cancer treatments and operations, the situation must be taken seriously. news.de reports that blood group 0 in particular is in high demand.

On average, 35% of people in Germany have blood group 0+, while only 6% have 0- (Rhesus negative). Blood group 0 is particularly valuable as a universal donor because it does not contain any antigens and therefore does not cause any antibodies. This allows it to be widely used in blood transfusions, which can be life-saving in critical situations. DRK blood donation explains the importance of compatibility between donor and recipient. A misunderstanding can have serious consequences as it leads to clumping of the erythrocytes.

Current blood donation dates

There are various dates to donate blood and save lives. The next blood donation appointments are planned in Potsdam, Cottbus and Peitz. You can donate in Potsdam on Friday from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Potsdam Institute. There are further options in cities such as Gransee, Herzberg and Brandenburg an der Havel. Please note that to donate you must be at least 18 years old and bring an ID card. The actual donation only takes 5-10 minutes, followed by a short rest period with a small snack news.de.

But not all blood types are equal when it comes to distribution. Rhesus-negative donors, such as people with blood type O-, can donate to many patients, but only receive donations from a limited number of donors. That makes them valuable, but also rare. People with Rhesus-positive blood groups, on the other hand, have more opportunities to receive donations, but are themselves suitable for fewer recipients. This shows once again how different blood group 0 is blutspende.de.

The urgent call for donations

The situation reminds us once again that each of us can make a contribution. With a quick visit to your next blood donation appointment you can help save lives. Whether in Potsdam or another city - every donation counts and is easier than you think. The DRK urgently appeals to everyone who is eligible to make themselves available as donors. Blood group 0 Rhesus negative in particular is urgently needed, while stocks of the other groups are also low. Remember: your donation can be the difference between life and death!