spot_imgspot_img

Red Cross Sounds Alarm on Critical Blood Shortage; Launches ‘Joined by Blood’ Campaign Amid Sickle Cell Awareness Month

The American Red Cross issued an urgent call for action this week, warning of a critical shortage in the national blood supply that poses a significant threat to the healthcare of patients across the country, particularly those in the Black community who rely on life-saving blood transfusions to manage sickle cell disease. 

With the blood supply dwindling by nearly 25 percent since early August and a series of natural disasters in recent months, the situation has become increasingly dire, according to a press release from the organization.

The Red Cross reports a surge in blood drive cancelations and a substantial decrease in blood and platelet donations in regions affected by recent catastrophes. August witnessed a big decline in donor turnout – a staggering 30,000-donation deficit for the month.

September is also designated as Sickle Cell Awareness Month, drawing attention to the importance of raising awareness about the more than 100,000 people in the United States grappling with the disease. The majority are of African descent and depend on regular blood transfusions to manage their condition.

The Red Cross is now launching a campaign titled “Joined by Blood” throughout September and October. The initiative involves collaborations with prominent organizations within the Black community, including 100 Black Men of America and Kier’s Hope Foundation. 

One in three African-American blood donors is a compatible match for individuals with sickle cell disease. For more information on how to donate blood or get involved in the “Joined by Blood” campaign, head to the American Red Cross website.


Click play to listen to the AURN News report from Jamie Jackson:

The post Red Cross Sounds Alarm on Critical Blood Shortage; Launches ‘Joined by Blood’ Campaign Amid Sickle Cell Awareness Month appeared first on American Urban Radio Networks.

DON’T MISS OUT

Be the first to know about the latest news, giveaways, events, and updates from The Black Chronicle!

We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

spot_imgspot_img
spot_img

Hot this week

African and Caribbean Nations Call for Reparations for Slave Trade, Propose Global Fund

Nations across Africa and the Caribbean, deeply impacted by...

Health care company agrees to pay $22.5 million to settle claims of over billing

A health care company agreed to pay nearly $22.5...

Sports betting expert offers advice on paying taxes for gambling winnings

(The Center Square) – Tax season is underway, and...

Entertainment district benefits don’t outweigh the cost, economists say

(The Center Square) — Weeks later, after more details...

Business association ‘disappointed’ by WA L&I’s proposed workers comp rate hike

(The Center Square) – The Association of Washington Business...

Gas tax revenue coming up short in new transportation revenue forecast

(The Center Square) – The Economic and Revenue Forecast...

FBI data says violent crime in Bossier City is up over last decade

(The Center Square) — The Bossier City Police Department...

Chicago alderman hope to see ShotSpotter restored to keep city streets safe

(The Center Square) – With the residents of his...

AZ Supreme Court rules that votes will count in open primary proposition

(The Center Square) – The Arizona Supreme Court ruled...

Vice presidential debate highlights divide between parties on school safety

(The Center Square) – During the Tuesday debate between...

Trump blasts Harris for FEMA help to migrants as hurricane budget runs low

(The Center Square) – The Biden-Harris administration took a...

Labor report shows 254,000 jobs added in September

The Bureau of Labor Statistics employment data shows that...

Seattle approves $20.76 minimum wage in 2025; will be highest in the U.S.

(The Center Square) – Seattle employees making the minimum...

More like this
Related

Gas tax revenue coming up short in new transportation revenue forecast

(The Center Square) – The Economic and Revenue Forecast...

FBI data says violent crime in Bossier City is up over last decade

(The Center Square) — The Bossier City Police Department...

Chicago alderman hope to see ShotSpotter restored to keep city streets safe

(The Center Square) – With the residents of his...

AZ Supreme Court rules that votes will count in open primary proposition

(The Center Square) – The Arizona Supreme Court ruled...