Texans urged to donate blood during Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Carter BloodCare notes 25% of the blood supply supports patients fighting cancer
BEDFORD, TEXAS (Sept. 25, 2023) – Carter BloodCare urges all eligible donors to help breast cancer patients and those in need of transfusions by donating blood and platelets.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of early detection, research and support. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in the United States; it is about 30% of all new female cancers each year, according to the American Cancer Society.
Texas-based Carter BloodCare notes 25% of the community blood supply is used to help people receiving cancer treatments. Cancer surgery can require red blood cells and platelets to replenish blood loss and support clotting. Chemotherapy can also lead to low blood-cell counts.
Currently, all blood types are needed, with O negative and platelets often at critical levels. As the universal blood type, O negative can be used to treat any patient; it’s also the only blood type used for premature and unborn babies. Platelets help prevent bleeding and infections.
Donors can begin giving blood at age 16 with parental consent; those 17 and older can donate independently. Also, donors must weigh at least 110 pounds and feel well on the day of donation.
To find a Carter BloodCare location and to set a convenient time to donate, click the red Donate Now tab at CarterBloodCare.org or call 800-366-2834.
About Carter BloodCare
Carter BloodCare is an independent, community blood center providing transfusion resources to more than 200 medical facilities in 50-plus counties of North, Central and East Texas. The nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization is one of the largest blood programs in Texas, delivering more than 440,000 blood products annually to meet hospitals’ requirements for their patients. Services include collection, processing, specialized laboratory testing, storage and distribution of blood and blood products. Tu centro de sangre comunitario.
