EDUCATION, HEALTH, AND CITIZENSHIP: THE INTERSECTION OF TEACHING, RESEARCH, AND EXTENSION AS A STRATEGY TO ENCOURAGE BLOOD DONATION IN RIO GRANDE DO SUL

Abstract

Sanctioned in 2001, Federal Law No. 10.205 regulates the collection, processing, storage, distribution, and application of human blood in Brazil, defining blood donation as a voluntary act of human solidarity and social commitment. The state of Rio Grande do Sul, located in the southern region of the country, has historically maintained blood donation rates above the national average. However, it has faced significant challenges in sustaining adequate blood supplies, necessitating the implementation of contingency plans to encourage donation. This study is the result of integrated extension and scientific initiation projects funded by the Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), aimed at raising community awareness about the importance of regular blood donation in Rio Grande do Sul. It employs a mixed-methods approach, with an applied nature, exploratory-descriptive design, and an interventionist character. The research is structured around the cross-sectional collection and analysis of secondary data from the Brazilian Hemotherapy Production Business Intelligence platform, managed by the National Health Surveillance Agency. This is complemented by a practical-extension phase involving the collection and analysis of blood antigens through blood typing tests, based on the principles of the ABO and Rhesus blood group systems. Among its findings, the study highlights the ongoing need for coordinated efforts by government and civil society to ensure the supply of blood and blood components in the state, and to foster a civic culture of donation as a strategy to strengthen the hemotherapy network.