Audrey Wu ’28
EE Staff Writer
According to the American Red Cross, every two seconds, someone in the U.S. requires a blood or platelet donation. This means that approximately 29,000 units of red blood cells and 5,000 units of platelets are needed daily. Currently, approximately 6.5 to 7 million people donate blood, which translates to only 3% of the national population. These statistics highlight a clear truth: the demand for blood far exceeds the number of donors. Blood donation is critically needed.
January is recognized as National Blood Donor Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the ongoing need for blood donations. The holiday season and prevalent unsafe weather conditions decrease donor turnout. Furthermore, cold weather and the rising rates of illness boost the need for blood; winter is the season when blood banks are particularly strained. Despite these apparent obstacles, there is a constant demand for blood, and it is currently greater than ever.
Blood is highly perishable and has varying shelf lives. Typically, red blood cells can be stored for 42 days, while platelets last only about 5. However, recent research has suggested that the older the blood is, the higher the infection rate is. By donating in January, local blood banks and patients receive the help they desperately require, as well as starting the year with an adequate supply.
There are eight blood groups and four main subdivisions; heredity determines whether our blood is A, B, AB, or O. However, each group can be RHD positive or negative (meaning that they either have the RHD protein, which is an antigen, or they lack it); a majority of the population is RHD positive. O positive blood cells are the most frequently occurring blood type (38% of the population) and are compatible with any other positive blood type (A+, B+, AB+, O+).
Each blood donation can save up to three lives, as it is separated into red blood cells, plasma, and platelets. Red blood cells help carry oxygen from the lungs to the tissues. Platelets stop bleeding by initiating blood clotting that plugs damaged vessels. Lastly, plasma helps to maintain blood volume and pH levels. Each part plays a crucial role and addresses different needs. Blood is necessary for patients suffering traumatic injuries, emergency surgeries, cancer treatments, and so much more.
To donate blood, you must be at least 16 years old, weigh more than 110 pounds, and be in good health. Teenagers are a sizeable percentage of first-time donors, making our participation extremely significant in reducing national blood shortages. Start this year helping others: donate blood and save lives! For more information on blood drives near you, refer to the American Red Cross Website.
Feature Photo Courtesy: Cape Cod Health