National blood supply at 'critically low levels', Red Cross says

National blood supply at 'critically low levels', Red Cross says
The organization said the blood supply dropped nearly 25% since early August, and there is an urgent need for donors.

By
Chloe Nordquist

Posted: 3:10 p.m. EDT Sep 12, 2023
The American Red Cross announced this week that the national blood supply has fallen to ‘critically low levels’.

The organization said the blood supply dropped nearly 25% since early August.

The American Red Cross provides the country with 40% of its blood supply, totaling around 2,500 hospitals and transfusion centers.

A number of factors are causing this shortage.

Climate events can lead to blood drive cancellations, reduced donations, and other issues. During Hurricane Idalia, more than 700 units of blood went uncollected in the affected area.

The busy travel season and back-to-school activities also contributed to lower donor turnout.

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https://scrippsnews.com/stories/national-blood-supply-at-critically-low-levels-red-cross-says/