National Blood Donor Month - January 2025

NATIONAL BLOOD DONOR MONTH

In 1937, Hungarian physician Bernard Fantus established the first hospital blood bank in the United States at Cook County Hospital in Chicago.

The history of blood studies dates all the way back to the top of the 19th century. Since 1970, National Blood Donor month has been established as the single most important observance. Donating blood can save many lives and improve health for many people. 

According to the World Health Organization, “blood is the most precious gift that anyone can give to another person — the gift of life. A decision to donate your blood can save a life, or even several if your blood is separated into its components — red cells, platelets and plasma.” 

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Did you know?

Your dog can donate blood, too. Check with your veterinarian and the Humane Society to make sure you know the local rules and regulations for this type of donation.

Have a cat? Ask your vet about blood donations for cats.

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SUPPORTING #NationalBloodDonorMonth

This is a quintessential chance to raise awareness about the importance of blood donation. 

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How to Observe Blood Donor Month

• Learn about and remember your blood type

What's your blood type? Some examples: O positive donors are needed more often than other blood types. O negative donors are considered "universal donors." AB positive donors are "universal recipients."

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• Donate

Not just in honor of National Blood Donor Month, but in the spirit of providing the key of life to those who need it most. 

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• Organize a Blood Donor screening

Ask your local healthcare providers to help set up a Blood Donor screening camp in your school, neighborhood, or organization. Make banners and flyers for the event and distribute them in your area. Ask your friends and colleagues to spread the information about the screening by talking about it on social media.

• Do some volunteering

Blood donation centers and pop-up sessions are always seeking out enthusiastic volunteers. Do your part to help others.

• Participate in online events

Various online podcasts and live sessions are conducted by healthcare providers throughout January to educate people about becoming a blood donor and its benefits. Try attending at least one event and get familiar with what it takes to become a blood donor or blood donation volunteer.

• Inspire

One person inspiring many people to donate can in turn inspire many others to donate, which can create an exponential increase in blood donations when and where they're needed the most.

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• Raise awareness about Blood Donor Month

You can talk to your friends and family about it or share information on social media. Shine a spotlight on human rights issues worldwide, from poverty and inequality to freedom of expression and the right to life.

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• Use #NationalBloodDonorHealthAwarenessMonth to share on social media.