BETHLEHEM, Pa. — Younger, more diverse donors are being encouraged to step up and give blood during National Blood Donor month.
The United States is in the midst of the most critical blood shortage in the nation’s history, according to Miller-Keystone Blood Center.
“While it is estimated that 65% of the U.S. population is eligible to donate blood, only three percent of those eligible actually donate blood regularly."Rami Nemeh, COO, Miller-Keystone Blood Center
“While it is estimated that 65% of the U.S. population is eligible to donate blood, only 3% of those eligible actually donate blood regularly,” Miller-Keystone Chief Operating Officer Rami Nemeh said.
“Additionally, fewer than 20% of blood donations come from diverse populations, and donations from individuals in the 19-24 age bracket have declined by more than 30% since 2019.”
Nemeh said the most prominent factor contributing to the shortage was the impact from the COVID-19 pandemic, during which many blood drives were canceled.
Blood collected through donations is used for cancer therapies, orthopedic or cardiovascular surgeries, organ or bone marrow transplants, and the treatment of inherited blood disorders such as thalassemia or sickle cell anemia.
It's also used for unexpected circumstances, such as car crashes and other accidents.
'Hope for a brighter tomorrow'
Nemeh also pointed out that if people who already donate blood once a year increased to two or three donations annually, blood shortages would rarely, if ever, occur.
Blood Donation Month is recognized in January to raise awareness about the need for more donations and to honor those who give.
Miller-Keystone Donor Relations Director Monika Wiegers said the first National Blood Donor Month was proclaimed by President Richard Nixon in January 1970.
“The aim was to acknowledge voluntary blood donors and encourage more individuals to give blood for the first time."Miller-Keystone Donor Relations Director Monika Wiegers
“The aim was to acknowledge voluntary blood donors and encourage more individuals to give blood for the first time,” Wiegers said.
Donations collected locally stay within the community, as Miller Keystone supplies blood to 35 hospitals across the region, including Lehigh Valley Health Network and St. Luke’s University Health Network.
“Miller-Keystone Blood Center expresses our heartfelt gratitude to all those who donate blood regularly, and we encourage those eligible to join them," Nemeh said.
"Such ongoing generosity not only saves lives today, but it extends hope for a brighter tomorrow for countless individuals."
Those looking to give blood can call 800-B-A-DONOR or visit GIVEaPINT.org.
