January is National Blood Donor Month, a time to spotlight the ongoing need for blood donations across the country. According to the American Red Cross, someone in the United States needs blood every two seconds.
Dr. Thomas Waters, an emergency medicine physician with Cleveland Clinic, says donated blood is critical for trauma victims, cancer patients, and people undergoing surgery. Blood cannot be manufactured and must come directly from donors.
The donation process is quick, typically taking about 10 minutes under sterile conditions, with about one pint of blood collected. Afterward, donors receive refreshments and rest briefly.
One blood donation can save up to three lives. Because donated blood only lasts up to 42 days, health officials stress the need for consistent donations throughout the year.
