A Critical Need for More Blood Donors

August 07, 2024

Severe storms and record heat have worsened a summer slump in blood donations.

This week, the American Red Cross said its national blood inventory plummeted more than 25 percent during July.

“For trauma patients, each minute of delay can increase the chance of death by 5 percent,” said Dr. Baia Lasky, division chief medical officer for the Red Cross. “More than a quarter of all blood products each year are used in critical care and emergency room situations—those transfusions are only available because of the generosity of blood and platelet donors.”

Here’s what you need to know:

• About:  The national blood supplier is particularly concerned about the low supply of type O blood. This has resulted in reduced distributions that are below hospital comfort levels.
• Seasonal impact:  Record-setting heat has canceled nearly 100 blood drives during the past month. Even without a heat wave, summer is usually a slower season for donation due to vacation travel and other summer activities.
• Challenges ahead:  This month begins the peak of Atlantic hurricane season, and the additional flooding, power outages, and other travel hazards could lead to more blood drive cancellations, officials said.
• What’s needed:  All types of blood are needed now—especially types O positive and O negative, as well as platelet donations—to help address this national shortage.
• Quotable:  “Having type O blood products readily available is vital to providing timely and lifesaving care to patients in need,” Dr. Lasky said.

Additional information is available online.