January is National Blood Donor Month!

Posted by Nora Barnett on January 6th, 2025 Posted in: Blog
Tags: Blood Donor Month

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The need for blood donation is constant and crucial. Hospitals rely on the generosity of donors to treat millions of patients every year. There is no artificial substitute for human blood. Blood banks must have a consistent supply to respond to natural disasters, accidents, and emergencies.

In the winter months, blood donations are reduced, due to weather, seasonal illness, and the holidays. Patients still need blood for life saving procedures. As a result, there’s an increased risk of blood shortage. That’s where National Blood Donor Month comes in!

Eligibility
If you’re unsure about your eligibility to donate blood or have never donated before, updated guidance now makes it easier for more people to donate. Changes include the removal of questions based on gender and sexual orientation. Learn more about eligibility requirements here.

Where to Donate Blood
Want to donate blood? Try this Blood Donation Site Locator.

Myths About Blood Donation
Think you can’t donate because of your tattoo, age, travel, medication, or some other reason? Better check out these myths about donating blood from Northwestern University!

How to Prepare for Donating Blood
The Red Cross has blood donation FAQs and info on what to do before, during, and after your donation.

Learn More about Blood Donation
If you want to learn more about blood transfusion and donation, MedlinePlus is a great place to start. The information found on Blood Transfusion and Donation page from MedlinePlus page ranges from the basics to specifics.