Lithuania leads Europe in blood donation rates; compares donor practices and incentives across various European countries.
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The National Blood Center in Vilnius collected the highest annual amount of blood in its history in 2025, with donors giving blood 77,140 times. Lithuania stands out in the EU for its donor return rate, with one donor giving 2.2 donations in 2025, exceeding the EU average of 1.6. The director noted that the increasing number of donors shows a growing blood donation culture in Lithuania, which helps in planning blood supplies for patients nationwide. Healthy residents aged 18 to 65 in Lithuania can donate, with men potentially donating up to six times a year and women up to four times.
Blood donation is crucial across Europe. Italy collected over 3 million units of blood and components in 2024, with record plasma donations. In Ireland, over 120,000 donations were made, though collection is concentrated in major cities. Croatia collects about 190,000 units annually, with campaigns running to maintain donor numbers. Austria and Spain have stable supplies, but Spain notes a decline in young donors, while Czechia and Greece report lower participation from youth.
Incentive systems vary across countries. Lithuania is based on volunteerism, with recognition for long-term donors, such as a second-tier state pension for those who donate 40 times (or 200 plasma units). Ireland and Spain offer no financial incentives, relying on awareness campaigns. Italy provides a paid day off, breakfast, and a free health check-up for donors. Croatia offers additional health insurance contributions for frequent donors and free public transport passes for residents of Zagreb. Czech donors receive compensation for travel, donation time, and recovery, and some cities offer free annual transport coupons.
