Inova Blood Donor Services Urges Public to Donate Blood During National Blood Donor Month

Each Donation Can Save Up to Three Lives

Sterling, VA – (January 2, 2009) – Inova Blood Donor Services (IBDS) and AABB (formerly known as the American Association of Blood Banks) are encouraging individuals to participate in National Blood Donor Month. Observed throughout the month of January, National Blood Donor Month provides an opportunity for people to donate blood or pledge to give blood at a time of the year when it is typically in short supply.

“Every donor can make a difference. Just one pint can save up to three lives. Becoming a regular blood donor is an excellent way to make a difference in one’s community,” said Terri Craddock, director, Inova Blood Donor Services.

With a shelf life of only 42 days, blood is traditionally in short supply during the winter months when regular blood donors’ schedules are adversely affected due to the holidays, travel schedules, inclement weather and illness. January, in particular, is a difficult month for blood centers to collect blood donations.

A reduction in turnout can put our nation’s blood inventory at a critical low. Every day in our country, approximately 39,000 units of blood are required in hospitals and emergency treatment facilities for patients with cancer and other diseases, for organ transplant recipients, and to help save the lives of accident victims.

IBDS encourages donors and potential donors to make giving blood a regular part of their lives. Those interested in donating blood are encouraged to visit www.inova.org/donateblood or call 1-866-BLOODSAVES to find a convenient blood collection site and to schedule an appointment.

Individuals who are at least 17 years of age (16 year olds can donate with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds and meet other general requirements may be eligible to donate blood.

“Our goal is to help ensure that blood is available to patients whenever and wherever it is needed because it is the blood on the shelves that helps save lives. Simple actions such as donating blood can positively affect the lives of loved ones,” said Craddock.

For more information about National Blood Donor Month or to learn more about blood donation, visit www.inova.org/donateblood.

Inova Health System is a not-for-profit health care system based in Northern Virginia that consists of hospitals and other health services, including emergency and urgent care centers, home care, nursing homes, mental health and blood donor services, and wellness classes. Governed by a voluntary board of community members, Inova’s mission is to improve the health of the diverse community it serves through excellence in patient care, education and research. Inova provides a healthy environment for its patients, families, visitors, staff and physicians by prohibiting tobacco use on its campuses.