Red Cross announces national blood shortage
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Monday, September 11, 2023
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WASHINGTON, Sept. 11, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Red Cross national blood supply has fallen to critically low levels—dropping nearly 25%-- since early August, and potentially threatening the medical care of patients with an emergency need for blood, or those living with critical conditions such as cancer and sickle cell disease and who depend on lifesaving blood transfusions. Back-to-back months of worsening climate-driven disasters have further strained the blood supply, resulting in blood drive cancelations and reducing much needed blood and platelet donations in affected areas.
Key Points:
- Back-to-back months of worsening climate-driven disasters have further strained the blood supply, resulting in blood drive cancelations and reducing much needed blood and platelet donations in affected areas.
- To make an appointment to give blood or platelets, donors can use the Red Cross Blood App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
- Joined by Blood is a fall activation of the Red Cross Sickle Cell Initiative which represents the powerful connection between blood donors and patients, since 1 in 3 African American blood donors are a match for people with sickle cell disease.
- In thanks for helping to replenish the blood supply this month, all who come to give blood, platelets or plasma Sept. 1-18 will receive a limited-edition Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last.