Manning residents have been urged by the Australia Red Cross Blood Service to roll up their sleeves and donate plasma during International Plasma Awareness Week.
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The week runs from October 7-13 and highlights the importance of plasma donation and recognises the role of donors in saving and improving lives.
It also increases understanding about lifesaving plasma protein therapies and rare diseases.
Blood service spokesperson Stuart Ward said Australia is experiencing a significant increase in demand for plasma and plasma products.
"Over the last decade, the demand for some plasma products has increased by around 10 per cent every year," Mr Ward explained.
"Blood donation is not just about the red stuff. Plasma makes up the majority of our blood and is full of important proteins and nutrients that protect us against invaders and help our blood to clot.
"Plasma and plasma products can be the last line of defence in the treatment of many serious medical conditions like cancer, bleeding disorders, immune and neurological conditions and burns."
The service needs at least 20,000 new plasma donors across Australia before the end of the year.
Improvements in the detection of treatment for some health conditions, an aging population and a high standard of care in Australia are thought to be behind the significant growth in the demand for plasma.
To make an appointment, or to learn more about donating plasma, call 131495 or visit www.donateblood.com.au.
