How much blood is donated each year and how much is used?
Each unit of blood consists of a volume of 450 – 500 milliliters or about one pint. Because of the constant demand for blood, about 14 million units of blood are donated every year in the United States by about 8 million volunteer donors. This supply of blood is used by 4 million patients. Blood is given to accident victims, people undergoing surgery and patients with leukemia, cancer and other diseases. Who gives blood? Volunteers donate virtually all of this country’s supply of blood for transfusion. It is important to encourage all healthy individuals to donate blood. Where do individuals donate blood? There are several places where blood donations are given. Bloodmobiles travel to places of employment, high schools, colleges, churches and community organizations. People can also donate blood at community blood centers and hospital-based donor centers. Is there an age limit for donating? A donor must be at least 17 years old to give blood. Persons who are older than 65 and in good h
