Millions of lives are saved each year through blood transfusions. Various shortcomings, though, in the way blood is collected, tested (or not tested) for infections such as HIV, and transfused, mean that people in many countries have an increased risk of becoming infected with HIV andother diseases through transfusions. It is estimated that between 5% and 10% of all HIV infections worldwide have been acquired through transfusion of contaminated blood and blood products. If the proper steps are taken, such infections can be easily prevented.
