Washington, DC – As the nation commemorates Juneteenth and World Sickle Cell Awareness Day, America’s Blood Centers, the national organization of community-based, independent blood centers that supply 60 percent of the nation’s blood supply, is reminding individuals of the important role that diversifying the blood donor base plays in supporting and improving care. Those patients with conditions like sickle cell disease and thalassemia often require frequent blood transfusions closely matched to their ethnic background to avoid potential complications. This reality emphasizes the importance of having a diverse blood donor base.
“Ensuring a diverse blood supply is crucial for sickle cell disease patients. Currently, only 20 percent of all whole blood donations in the United States come from communities of color. As we recognize Juneteenth and World Sickle Cell Awareness Day, it is important that remember the ongoing need for blood donations from a diverse donor base as we encourage all eligible donors to schedule an appointment to donate blood,” said Kate Fry, MBA, CAE, chief executive officer of America’s Blood Centers.
Blood transfusion remains one of the most common hospital procedures, with patients requiring a blood transfusion every two seconds. More than 14 million units of red blood cells, platelets, and plasma are used every year, averaging nearly 41,000 blood products used by patients daily. The importance of expanding blood donor diversity is paramount as approximately 1 in 13 Black or African American babies are born with sickle cell trait, magnifying the crucial role of donors from communities of color.
More information and data regarding blood donor demographics and statistics can be found in the new edition of America’s Blood Centers’ U.S. Blood Donation Statistics and Public Messaging Guide.
Founded in 1962, America’s Blood Centers (ABC) is the national organization bringing together community-based, independent blood centers across North America. These organizations operate in more than 1,100 communities and provide close to 60 percent of the U.S. and a quarter of the Canadian blood supply. ABC member organizations serve more than 150 million people and provide blood products and services to more than 3,500 hospitals and healthcare facilities. All ABC U.S. members are 501(c)(3) organizations licensed and regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or Health Canada. For more information, visit www.AmericasBlood.org.
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