Washington health officials are urging eligible residents to donate blood as supplies across the Northwest run low during the summer months, when donations typically decline while demand remains high.
Blood banks across the region need donations to ensure hospitals have enough blood for trauma patients, surgeries, cancer treatments and other medical emergencies, according to the Washington State Department of Health.
One pint of donated blood can help save up to three lives by providing red blood cells, plasma or platelets, health officials said.
Bloodworks Northwest takes more than 1,000 blood donors each day to meet the region’s needs.
“This shortage is especially concerning because we’re in the middle of what’s known as the 100 Deadliest Days,” said Curt Bailey, president and CEO of Bloodworks Northwest.
“That’s the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when teen car crashes spike and donations drop.
“Last month, we had to bring in a record amount of blood from other parts of the country to keep up with the demand for blood locally. It’s vital to donate blood to keep our community safe this summer.”
The American Red Cross also issued a national appeal for blood donors, saying a significant decline in donations has reduced blood inventories across the country.
“The decline in donors is impacting our ability to maintain optimal inventory levels and meet hospital demand consistently across the region,” said Angel Montes, regional executive for the American Red Cross.
Health officials said summer is one of the most difficult times of the year to maintain the blood supply. School breaks, vacations and busy schedules often lead to fewer donations even as hospitals continue treating patients injured in crashes, undergoing surgery or receiving cancer care.
Eligible donors can schedule an appointment or learn more about donation requirements through members of the Northwest Blood Coalition, including Bloodworks Northwest, the American Red Cross and Vitalant.
