Did you know that every two seconds in America, someone needs blood?
This demand goes well beyond those facing an unexpected emergency like a car crash. Blood transfusions are regularly needed to treat patients facing everything from diseases like cancer to cardiovascular and orthopedic surgeries to organ and bone marrow transplants. In total, 1 in 7 people entering a hospital depend on a ready and available blood supply.
As important as blood is to so many of us, just three percent of all Americans donate blood today. That’s despite the fact that 65 percent of the U.S. population is eligible to do. Less than 20 percent of all blood donations each year come from individuals in communities of color and donations from individuals 19 and under have dropped nearly 50 percent over the last two years alone. This reality has created an urgent need for younger, more diverse donors.
That’s why it’s so important to celebrate National Blood Donor Month this January. This month is our chance to spread awareness about the need for more blood donors while taking time to celebrate those who already donate and help save lives.
The first such month was proclaimed by President Richard Nixon and held in January of 1970 to pay tribute to voluntary blood donors and encourage more people to give for the first time.
A lot may have changed over the last five decades, but the need for blood – and the selflessness of those who answer the call to give it – has remained constant. We thank all those who regularly donate blood. Their decision to give generously today helps save lives and gives more people their tomorrow.
