The Importance of Blood Supply
Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood. It is essential for surgeries, cancer treatment, chronic illnesses, and traumatic injuries. Whether a patient receives whole blood, red cells, platelets or plasma, this lifesaving care starts with one person making a generous donation.
Facts About Blood Needs
- Every 2 seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood and or platelets.
- Approximately 36,000 units of red blood cells are needed every day in the U. S.
- Nearly 7,000 units of platelets and 10,000 units of plasma are needed daily in the U.S.
- Less than 38 percent of the population is eligible to give blood or platelets.
- Nearly 21 million blood components are transfused each year in the U.S.
- Sickle cell disease affects 90,000 to 100,000 people in the U.S. About 1,000 babies are born with the disease each year. Sickle cell patients require blood transfusions throughout their lives.
- The average red blood cell transfusion is approximately 3 units.
- A single car accident victim can require as many as 100 units of blood.
- Blood and platelets cannot be manufactured; they can only come from volunteer donors.
- The blood type most often requested by hospitals is type O.
- One donation can potentially save up to three lives.
- According to the American Cancer Society, more than 1.8 million people are expected to be diagnosed with cancer in 2020. Many will need blood, sometimes daily, during their chemotherapy treatment.
Why Give Blood?
You don’t need a special reason to give blood. You just need your own reason.
*Some of us give blood because we were asked by a friend.
*Some know that a family member or friend might need blood someday.
*Some believe it is the right thing to do.
*Some do it for the free cookies and juice.
What to Expect at Your Donation?
- Registration-you will sign in, show an I.D., and be asked to read some required information.
- Health History and Mini-Physical-answer some questions online or in a private interview and receive a general health check.
- The Donation-you’ll be seated comfortably while a pint of blood is drawn. The actual donation only takes 8-10 minutes.
- Refreshment and Recovery-after donating, you can enjoy a snack and a drink 10-15 minutes before resuming your day. The entire donation process takes about an hour.
- Testing-your blood is tested and sent to a patient in need.
General Guidelines for Blood Donation
*Be in good general health and feeling well.
*Be at least 17years old in most states (16 years old with parental consent in some states).
*Weigh at least 110 pounds. Additional weight requirements apply for donors 18 years old and younger and all high school donors).
*Have not donated blood in the last 56 days.
Heartland Health Services is hosting a Blood Drive with the American Red Cross. Please register today to save a life!!!
Carver Center
710 W. Third Street
Peoria, IL 61606
09/07/2021 | 01:00 PM - 06:00 PM
Note: Your blood can save lives. Come to give and get a $10 Gift Card by email thanks to Amazon.
