As the calendar year rolls over many people start to focus on self-improvement, but what if a person’s self-improvement included saving someone’s life? January is National Blood Donor Month, which could not come at a better time as the supply is critically low. Read on to learn more about why becoming a blood donor is important, how to become one, and other ways to support if donating is not an option.

Healthy Tip Tuesday is brought to you in partnership with Trinity Health Systems.

Why is donating blood critical to others?

• Every 2 seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood.
• Type 0 blood is the most requested.
• 38% of the U.S. is eligible to donate, and approximately only 10% donate.
• A one-time blood donation can save multiple lives.
• Donating blood does not just save someone that has an emergency. Cancer patients require ongoing blood transfusions, as do people on ECMO machines, burn patients, and sickle cell

How can a person become a donor?

• Must be 16 years old in most states
• Must weigh at least 110 pounds
• Must be in good health and feeling well
• Must schedule an appointment

The American Red Cross even has an app for that! A person can find out where local blood drives are happening, a local donation center, and schedule their appointment. Just download the app from the app store.

But some people are still not able to donate for a variety of reasons. So what can someone do to support blood donation?

• Organize a blood drive! The American Red Cross has a tab on its website dedicated specifically to host a blood drive.
• Volunteer at an already arranged blood drive.
• Promote the importance of donating blood and utilize social media campaigns to do so.

Every person can play a role in spreading the message to encourage others to donate blood. Make sure to consult a doctor before donating.