How blood donors help during National Sickle Cell Awareness Month in September

DALLAS-FORT WORTH – (Sept. 1, 2026) – During National Sickle Cell Awareness Month this September, Carter BloodCare donors can boost the local blood supply to reflect the full scope and strengths of the community.

Sickle cell disease — the most common inherited blood disorder in the United States — affects approximately 100,000 Americans, including 7,000 Texans, and 20 million people worldwide.

What is sickle cell disease?

Healthy red blood cells are disc-shaped and flexible to move easily through the blood vessels. Sickle cell-impacted red blood cells, however, are crescent or sickle shaped; they do not bend or move easily, preventing these cells from circulating properly and supplying oxygen to all parts of the body.

This impaired blood flow then leads to life-altering health complications, such as blindness, severe pain, headaches, fatigue, infections, kidney disease, swelling in the extremities, dizziness and strokes.

How do blood donors help?

Blood transfusions are essential in relieving sickle cell symptoms. America’s Blood Centers – the national organization of community-based, independent blood centers – noted frequently transfused patients, including those with sickle cell disease, often require blood from donors of similar ethnic and racial backgrounds.

However, less than 20% of all blood donations currently come from the full scope of our communities. Increasing that percentage is one of the best ways to support patients coping with conditions like sickle cell disease.

Carter BloodCare is committed to raising awareness of the positive effects of a blood supply that genuinely represents the entire community.

To help Carter BloodCare support our neighbors in need, visit CarterBloodCare.org or call 800-366-2834.