New resources released by ABC provide a snapshot of our nation’s blood supply, help educators teach the importance of becoming lifelong blood donors
Washington, DC – Ahead of World Blood Donor Day tomorrow, June 14, America’s Blood Centers (ABC), the national organization of community-based, independent blood centers that supply 60 percent of the nation’s blood supply, today thanked our nation’s blood donors and urged all eligible individuals to save lives through donation. Those interested in donating can find the local community blood center near them online here.
“World Blood Donor Day comes at a critical time for our nation’s blood supply. The summer months are especially challenging for the blood supply as we typically see a decrease in donations despite the continual need for blood products. We thank America’s blood donors for answering the call and encourage all eligible individuals to make the lifesaving gift of blood donation at this important time,” said Kate Fry, Chief Executive Officer at America’s Blood Centers.
Countries around the globe celebrate World Blood Donor Day annually to raise awareness of the need for safe blood and blood products and to thank blood donors. Mexico is the sponsor country this year, and the theme is “Donating blood is an act of solidarity. Join the effort and save lives.” Resources and additional information are available here.
ABC recently released a first of its kind guide that provides the latest look at America’s blood supply and its donors through data curated from published research, credible public sources, and input from industry experts. It found that although a blood transfusion is needed every two seconds in the United States, just three percent of the U.S. population donates blood each year. Worldwide, more than 120 million units of blood are needed each year. A single donation can help two or more patients in need, and each donation can be separated into more than one blood product, including red blood cells, plasma, and platelets.
Recognizing the need to increase awareness about blood donation and grow the next generation of lifelong donors, ABC, together with ADRP, the international division of ABC, recently released Vein to Vein: The Science of Blood Donation, a groundbreaking high school education program to help teachers craft lesson plans to develop student leadership skills and a lifelong interest in supporting our nation’s blood supply. This turn-key resource is educator-crafted and designed to meet Next Generation Science Standards
Founded in 1962, America’s Blood Centers is the national organization bringing together community-based, independent blood centers. Its member organizations operate more than 600 blood collection sites providing close to 60 percent of the U.S., and a quarter of the Canadian, blood supply. These blood centers serve more than 150 million people and provide blood products and services to more than 3,500 hospitals and healthcare facilities across North America. All ABC U.S. members are licensed and regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. For more information, visit www.AmericasBlood.org.
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