Since 1970, the month of January has been observed as, National Blood Donor Month. The American Red Cross (ARC) sponsored campaign, “recognizes the lifesaving contribution of blood and platelet donors.” According to the ARC, more than 13,000 donations are needed daily to meet the demands of the 2,600 hospitals, clinics, and cancer clinics nationwide that rely on voluntary blood donors.
Here are some additional facts about blood donations:
- Type “O” is the most requested blood type by hospitals as it is always in high demand and short supply. According to the ARC, only 7% of people living in the USA have type O negative blood.
- AB positive blood donors are called the universal donors of plasma. The ARC shares that only 3% of people living in the USA have AB positive blood.
- A single car accident victim can require up to 100 pints of blood.
- Blood donation is a safe and sterile process.
- A single donation can potentially help more than one patient.
- Most donated red blood cells must be used within 42 days of collection.
Learn more about blood donations by visiting www.redcross.com. You can also discuss any medical concerns with your healthcare provider prior to donating. You may walk-in to any of our convenient Primary Medical Care Center community clinics, or you may schedule an appointment by visiting our website at www.primarymed.com, or call (305)751-1500 for our Miami-Dade clinic, or (954)289-0000 for our Broward clinic.
Source: https://www.redcross.org/