Academy
The first International Conference of the Balkan Consortium of Transfusion Medicine: “challenges in transfusion safety- from donor to patient”
The First International Conference of the Balkan Consortium of Transfusion Medicine took place on October 3-4, 2024, in Tirana, Albania, marking a significant milestone for the advancement of transfusion medicine in the Balkans and beyond. Organized by the Albanian Society of Transfusion Doctors in collaboration with the Asian Association of Transfusion Medicine (AATM), the conference aimed to promote voluntary blood donation and ensure the provision of high-quality and safe transfusion services.
A Collaborative Effort for Blood Safety
The conference was the result of a strong collaboration between key international transfusion organizations and institutes, bringing together experts, clinicians, and researchers from around the world. Medical directors and specialists from the Balkans, Europe, and Asia participated, creating a valuable platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and future research partnerships.
The event was officially opened by the President of the Albanian Society of Transfusion Doctors, Prof. Assoc. Irena Seferi, the President of AATM, Dr. Nabajyoti Choudhry, along with representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the University of Medicine in Albania. Their remarks emphasized the importance of advancing transfusion medicine and fostering international collaboration.
Distinguished speakers included experts from institutions such as AATM, AABB, the European Blood Alliance (EBA), Sanquin and Centro Nazionale Sangue. Among them were Dr. Nabajyoti Choudhry (AATM), Dr. Christine Bale (AABB), Dr. Dragoslav Domanovic (EBA), and Dr. Hans Vrielink (Sanquin), Dr. Vincenzo de Angelis (CNS), whose insights reinforced the significance of the conference. The conference also received financial support from the ISBT through its Financial Academy Support Program, which helped facilitate the organisation of the event.
Welcome speech
Day 1: Focus on Voluntary Blood Donation and Blood Safety
The first day of the conference was dedicated to strategies for increasing Voluntary Non-Remunerated Blood Donation (VNRBD). Leading experts set the stage with discussions on achieving universal blood safety, highlighting WHO guidelines and European approaches to blood donation.
Further sessions explored donor retention strategies, the role of youth engagement in blood donation, ethical considerations, and the impact of transfusion institutes versus donor associations. Testing and quality control were also key topics, with discussions on emerging pathogens, artificial intelligence applications, and advancements in infectious disease screening.
Different speakers
Day 2: Clinical Transfusion and Immunohematology
The second day focused on the clinical applications of transfusion medicine, addressing transfusion practices for specific patient populations. Topics included treatment for thalassemia, the role of patient hemovigilance in improving transfusion outcomes, and the latest innovations in patient blood management. Experts also examined developments in blood irradiation and Albania’s opportunities in implementing the technique.
The immunohematology session was another highlight, featuring discussions on phenotype and allele matching, molecular testing, and the management of rare blood donor programs. Experts from Albania, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and North Macedonia shared their experiences, offering valuable insights.
One of the presentations
Building a Future of Collaborative Research
A key goal of the conference was to establish long-term collaborations in transfusion research. By bringing together professionals from different backgrounds, the event fostered new opportunities for joint research, policy development, and knowledge-sharing.
With engaging panel discussions, networking sessions, and a formal gala dinner, the conference left a meaningful impact on the field of transfusion medicine. It set the foundation for improved transfusion practices, benefitting both donors and recipients.
A Step Forward for Transfusion Medicine
The First International Conference of Transfusion Medicine was a significant step towards strengthening transfusion services and encouraging international collaboration. By addressing critical challenges in voluntary blood donation, blood safety, and immunohematology, the event laid the groundwork for future advancements in transfusion medicine. The participation of leading experts and dedicated professionals ensured that this conference played a crucial role in shaping the future of blood transfusion services worldwide.
At the close of the event, the organizing parties and representatives from Balkan transfusion institutes reflected on the success of the conference, discussed plans for future collaborations, and began preparations for the next gathering. Their commitment to maintaining the momentum generated during the conference will help drive ongoing improvements in transfusion medicine across the region.
Some discussions
Group picture
A Celebration of Science and Culture
No conference is complete without a social gathering, and this one was no exception. The conference party provided attendees with a chance to unwind and connect in a more relaxed setting. The evening was filled with Albanian traditional music, dancing, and live performances, offering a cultural experience that enriched the event. The celebration helped foster deeper professional relationships and left participants with lasting memories.
Group picture
ISBT Academy Support
ARE YOU ORGANIZING AN EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITY AFTER JULY 1, 2025?
Applications for the support of educational events held after July 2025
Apply for ISBT Academy Support, which is available for educational activities, the use of the ISBT logo and the ISBT endorsement of an existing educational course.
- Applications from countries in the Low, Lower Middle or Upper Middle World Bank Index categories are eligible
- Organisations from High Income Countries can only request financial support if it is intended to support the attendance of a participant from an eligible country, or if the HIC is hosting an educational activity in an eligible host country.
Each organization can only submit one application for financial support in a given year and can request to use the ISBT logo as many times as required.
