Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus ranks first in the world in voluntary unpaid blood donation relative to population size, the health ministry said in a message issued on World Blood Donor Day. The ministry said the country collected 74,279 units of blood, placing it at the top of international rankings on a per capita basis.
Health ministry statement
The ministry said the result reflects “the high sense of solidarity and social responsibility that distinguishes its citizens”.
Role in the health system
According to the ministry, voluntary blood donation remains a central pillar of the health system, helping ensure adequate supplies for hospitals and emergency needs. It added that regular participation by donors supports the “proper functioning of the health system”.
Appeal for continued participation
Health authorities and the blood centre thanked volunteer donors and platelet donors across the country, saying their contribution is essential for patients who need transfusions, including accident victims, surgical cases, and people with chronic or serious illnesses. The ministry also called on eligible members of the public to continue donating and encouraged wider participation, describing it as a collective social responsibility.