Singapore Expands Blood Donor Age Limit to Enhance Donations

In an effort to broaden the base of blood donors in Singapore, the Health Sciences Authority has announced an increase in the maximum age for first-time blood donors from 60 years to 65 years. Health Minister Ong Ye Kung made the announcement on June 28, stating that this change, which will take effect on January 1, 2026, is in response to the higher life expectancy and improved health standards among older adults.

Ong highlighted local findings indicating that the occurrence of adverse reactions to blood donation actually decreases with age for first-time donors up to the current age limit. He reassured that there is no expectation of a surge in adverse reactions once individuals surpass the age of 60. Presently, individuals wishing to donate blood for the first time must be 60 or younger, while repeat donors may give blood until they reach 65, provided they meet health requirements.

Under the new guidelines, individuals in good health will be allowed to make their first blood donation until the age of 65, aligning Singapore's policies with those of countries including Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom. Minister Ong, who also oversees social policy coordination, emphasized the challenges Singapore faces in sustaining an adequate blood supply. As the population ages, the need for blood products is increasing, whereas the number of eligible donors is decreasing.

From 2013 to 2024, the introduction of new blood donors decreased from over 20,000 to around 18,000. The demand for blood transfusions has also gone up, with more than 35,000 patients in Singapore receiving blood for various medical situations including surgeries and cancer treatments the previous year. Mr. Ong pointed out that a single blood donation can help save up to three lives, warning that insufficient blood supplies could lead to postponed surgeries and delayed treatments, posing serious risks to patients.

Additionally, donating blood tends to fluctuate with seasonal trends, as donor turnout diminishes during holiday seasons and school breaks when individuals travel. In early 2022, Singapore’s Group O blood supplies fell critically low, with stock levels dipping to under six days' worth, prompting a personal appeal from Ong that resulted in a sharp increase in donations. He concluded by stating that this incident demonstrated the community's willingness to help and confirmed that efforts would continue to facilitate the donation process and minimize the rejection of potential donors.