If you’ve been considering ways to help others in the new year, you may have thought about volunteering, teaching or mentoring. But there’s another action you can take that only takes a few minutes, and could literally save lives: donating blood.
The United States is in the midst of a severe blood shortage, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. And yet, every two seconds someone needs blood. The blood supply is essential to people who are enduring injuries, surgery, cancer treatment and chronic illnesses. January is the slowest month for blood donations, because of poor weather, winter illnesses and the holiday season. That’s why, in 1971, President Richard Nixon proclaimed the first month of the year National Blood Donor Month.
Want to know more about donating blood? Here are eight reasons to consider contributing this month, or any other time.
- The blood supply depends on the generosity of donors. That’s because there’s no acceptable substitute for blood or platelets. These substances can’t be made in a lab, or transferred from other species — they must come from humans who take the time and initiative to donate.
- The impact could last for years and affect multiple recipients. A one-time blood donation could save up to three lives.
- You could be one of the 3%. That’s the percentage of the U.S. population that gives blood annually, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.
- All blood types are needed, including rare blood types. There are four major blood types: A, B, AB and O, and 45% of people in the U.S. have type O blood (positive or negative). But there are also rare types of blood that don’t fall within those four groups. That’s why more diverse donors are always needed.
- You have enough to share. On average, adults have about 10 pints of blood, and when you donate you give about one pint. Your body is able to replace that blood fairly quickly, and donors are encouraged to return in 56 days (the minimum wait) to donate again.
- Donating is quick — and there are snacks. While a blood donation appointment lasts about an hour, the donation part, itself, takes only about eight to 10 minutes. Prior to that process, donors will answer some questions and receive a mini physical. After the donation, light snacks and refreshments are available.
- Many people can donate, but not all. Donor restrictions can vary by blood bank and by the type of donation, so be sure to check with the location where you’ve made an appointment. The American Red Cross, for example, requires donors to be at least 16 years old (in most states), weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health and feeling well among other requirements (see eligibility FAQs here). Some of the common reasons people can’t donate include illness, certain medications, low iron counts and recent travel or residency outside of the U.S.
- You never know who’ll need it. Donating blood is a good deed that could help a stranger you’ll never know. Or it could benefit your friends and family—maybe even you, some day. Making this effort truly is the ultimate act of generosity: giving so that others can heal.
Ready to roll up your sleeve? Visit www.redcrossblood.org to find a location near you.
