National Blood Donor Month
Since 1970, National Blood Donor Month has been celebrated in January. Historically, the winter season is one of the most difficult times of the year to collect enough blood products and donations to meet patient needs. While “whole blood” donations are the most common, individuals can also make platelet, power red, and plasma donations.
Donated blood is used for blood transfusions. Common scenarios in which blood transfusions are needed include the following:
- Patients suffering from severe trauma following disasters and accidents
- Patients receiving surgical treatments and some medical treatments, including cancer patients and patients with sickle cell disease
- Female patients suffering from pregnancy complications before, during, and after childbirth
Making the decision to donate blood can help safe a life, but not everyone is eligible to donate. Please visit The Red Cross to see if you meet the requirements to donate blood to ensure both your safety and the safety of recipients.
FACTS ABOUT BLOOD DONATION NEEDS IN THE UNITED STATES
- Every 2 seconds someone needs blood
- Approximately 36,000 units of red blood cells are needed every day
- Approximately 7,000 units of platelets are needed every day
- Approximately 10,000 units of plasma are needed every day
The PPC team contributes to the constant need by hosting an annual blood drive. Our drive is this Thursday, January 19th.
Source: The American National Red Cross