Donate to help patients on World Sickle Cell Day
America’s Blood Centers urges blood donations to support sickle cell patients on World Sickle Cell Day June 19
Press release courtesy of America’s Blood Centers
Washington, DC (June 18, 2025) – America’s Blood Centers (ABC), the national organization of community-based, independent blood centers that supply 60% of the U.S. blood supply, today is calling on eligible individuals to give blood to help patients battling sickle cell disease, in recognition of World Sickle Cell Day on Thursday, June 19.
Sickle cell disease affects approximately 100,000 Americans, occurring in about 1 out of every 365 Black or African American births.
This hereditary disorder causes sickle-shaped red blood cells, leading to painful episodes and chronic anemia, often requiring lifelong blood transfusions to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
“Sickle cell warriors depend on regular blood transfusions to address the effects of their condition and manage complications. By taking just an hour to donate blood, you can make a life-changing difference for individuals living with this disease. We encourage all eligible individuals to make an appointment to donate blood to help ensure individuals with sickle cell receive the lifesaving transfusions they need,” said Kate Fry, CEO of America’s Blood Centers.
Black/African American blood donors are 10 times more likely to have blood that lacks specific red blood cell antigens, which is required for many sickle cell patients to safely receive the blood transfusions they require to manage their disease.
Without the 1 in 3 Black/African American donors with the closely matched blood required for some patients with sickle cell disease, these patients would be unable to receive the transfusions that are required to manage their disease while avoiding potential life-threatening transfusion reactions.
Additionally, 8% to 10% of Black/African Americans have the sickle cell trait, and more than 100 million people worldwide have the sickle cell trait.
Blood transfusions are a critical treatment for many sickle cell patients, helping to reduce pain crises and prevent life-threatening complications.
However, only 3% of the U.S. population donates blood each year. Expanding the donor base is essential to provide the best-matched blood for sickle cell patients.
About America’s Blood Centers
Founded in 1962, America’s Blood Centers (ABC) is the national organization bringing together community-based, independent blood centers across North America. These organizations operate in more than 1,100 communities and provide close to 60% of the U.S. and a quarter of the Canadian blood supply. ABC member organizations serve more than 150 million people and provide blood products and services to more than 3,500 hospitals and health care facilities. All ABC U.S. members are 501(c)(3) organizations licensed and regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or Health Canada. For more information, visit www.AmericasBlood.org.
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