Every two seconds, someone in America requires a blood transfusion. This procedure forms a cornerstone of modern healthcare, with over 42,000 units of red blood cells, platelets, and plasma being administered daily to patients in need. These transfusions play a critical role in treating acute conditions such as trauma, postpartum hemorrhage, as well as managing chronic illnesses like cancer, inherited blood disorders, and various surgeries and transplants.

The dedication of America’s approximately 7 million annual blood donors act as a lifeline for countless individuals. There is no synthetic blood. It cannot be made in a lab. That means patients facing emergency situations like accidents to planned interventions such as organ transplants and cancer therapies can get blood only from America’s volunteer blood donors.

Despite 65% of the population being eligible, only 3% of Americans currently donate blood, a statistic that underscores the urgent need to expand the donor base. There has been a 40% increase in blood donations from individuals aged 65 and older between 2019 and 2021, indicating the importance for engaging younger generations to become blood donors.

Ensuring a diverse donor pool is crucial for delivering effective patient care, especially for those requiring regular transfusions due to conditions like Sickle Cell disease and Thalassemia, which often affect minority communities disproportionately. Yet only 12% of all donated blood comes from diverse communities, highlighting the need for continued efforts to increase blood donations across communities of color.

Your decision to donate blood can be transformative. Just a 1% increase in blood donors across America could alleviate shortages and positively impact the lives of countless individuals. Join us in making a profound difference during National Blood Donor Month and all year long - your contribution can truly save lives.