Highlighting the Significance of Blood Donation in Supporting Cancer Patients

Breast Cancer Awareness Month, recognized in October, is a time dedicated to recognizing and supporting those affected by breast cancer. Blood donors play a critical role in supporting these patients, since more than a quarter of the U.S. blood supply is used by patients battling cancer.

The Vital Role of Blood Transfusions

Did you know that blood donations play a vital role in supporting individuals battling breast cancer? Blood transfusions are often needed by cancer patients, including those fighting breast cancer, to help them through treatments such as chemotherapy and surgeries.Every year, more than 1.9 million people are diagnosed with new cases of cancer, including breast cancer. By donating blood, you can directly impact the lives of those in need, including individuals undergoing treatment for breast cancer.

 

breast cancer

How Blood Donations Help Cancer Patients

Did you know that more than a quarter of the U.S. blood supply is used by patients battling cancer? Each year, over 1.9 million people are diagnosed with a new cancer, and many of them will require blood transfusions during their treatment. Individuals with cancer may need blood due to anemia and/or thrombocytopenia caused directly by the disease or as a result of treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, or blood loss during surgery.

Congress

Our Advocacy Work

ABC is championing policies that promote equitable access to blood products while growing and diversifying the blood donor base to ensure patient needs are met.

Discover the Reality of Blood Donation in America

Download the definitive guide to U.S. blood donation and public messaging, where you can explore over 40 verified statistics that offer crucial insights into America's blood supply and its donors. This guide is designed to provide the latest look at the state of blood donations, utilizing data from rigorously researched sources and expert input.

2024 blood donation statistics

Learn More with Key Resources

strengthening the blood supply

Strengthening The Blood Supply

Learn how America's Blood Centers is advocating for a stronger, more diverse blood donor base to meet current and future patient needs effectively.

Safety of the Blood Supply (1)

About Blood Donation

Learn about the impact of donating blood, what you can expect when donating, and find answers to frequently asked questions.

Trends impacting

Trends Impacting the Blood Supply

Learn about current trends impacting the nation’s blood supply, as well as ABC’s efforts working with the Administration, Congress, and industry stakeholders to promote the value of blood and strengthen and diversify our nation’s donor base.

More from Our Partners

America's Blood Centers partners with a diverse range of national organizations to strengthen the nation's blood supply and support the work of ABC members.

Below are resources from some of our key partners to help support your efforts during this critical month.

Be a Social Advocate

With your help, we can reach more potential donors and ensure there’s blood on the shelf when it’s needed the most. Spread the word online today using these resources provided by ADRP: The Association of Blood Donor Professionals.

Cancer Social Media

Cancer Awareness Graphics

General Social Media

Key Statistics and Information

General Blood Donation Toolkit (1)

The Importance of Blood Donation

Take Action

Are you passionate about ensuring a strong and reliable blood supply for all those in need? Take a moment to make your voice heard by using our user-friendly platform to reach out to your Members of Congress. Your advocacy can make a real difference in supporting America's blood supply as a national priority.

There is an immediate need for lawmakers to make supporting the blood supply a national priority. While the majority of independent, community-based blood centers are currently able to meet patient needs, every two seconds in the U.S., someone needs blood. With only three percent of Americans donating blood each year, we need to grow and diversify America’s donor base to ensure blood products are available for all those who depend on it.

Let's work together to amplify our impact and drive positive change. Get started now—your advocacy matters!