Patients at a clinic in Ghana — Ghanaian Times
Jobless youth selling blood
They are often referred to as commercial blood donors and are found in several African countries, particularly Ghana.
When a patient needs blood and the blood banks are empty and relatives or friends are not able or willing to donate, these commercial donors intervene to save the situation but this comes at a price. The going-rate per pint of blood is between 100 cedis ($21) and 120 cedis ($25).
These paid donors, who are largely teenagers are often found lurking around the major hospitals ready to donate. Some are also recruited from the streets and bars to give blood.
Even though their donations are seen to be saving lives of patients, there are fears from public health officials that these paid donors are spreading diseases like HIV or hepatitis.
