January is National Blood Donor Month put in place in 1970 by President Richard Nixon. Blood donations help save lives every day in the United States and it is through donations that you can make a difference.
The Need For Donations
In the United States, roughly 36,000 units of red blood cells and 7,000 units of platelets are needed daily. The average red blood transfusion provides about three units of blood.
Roughly 38% of people in the United States can donate blood, but less than 10% donate. It is recommended that donors wait 56 days between donations and only donate if they are in good health and feeling well.
During winter months, donations decrease due to factors such as seasonal illnesses and inclement weather. These factors increase the need for blood donations.
Donation Use
Blood donations are used to meet different needs including cancer patients, trauma patients, sickle cell patients, burn patients, and patients with chronic illnesses. In severe accidents, a motor vehicle accident victim suffering injuries can require 100 units of blood to survive.
Hospitals rely on blood already in stock when a national disaster occurs, making it more important to donate regularly.
Donating During COVID
It is safe and necessary to donate blood during COVID. Blood drive hosts are taking extra precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and also meet donation needs across the country. You can visit the American Red Cross website for additional details on how and where to donate blood.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Source(s): American Red Cross | Photo
