The Power of Platelets

Platelet Donation: Why It’s Urgently Needed and How You Can Help | Blood Assurance

Many Americans are familiar with the need for whole blood donations, but there’s another type of donation that’s just as critical, but not talked about as much—platelets. Platelets are essential for cancer patients, trauma victims, and people undergoing surgeries.

At Blood Assurance, we’re calling on heroes—like you—to step up and help save lives.

What Are Platelets and Why Are They So Important?

Platelets are tiny cell fragments in our blood that play a key role in clotting, which helps stop bleeding. Very low platelet counts can result in spontaneous bleeding, and even minor internal bleeding can quickly become life-threatening.

Every day, more than 6,000 units of platelets are transfused in the United States. Cancer treatments—especially for pediatric patients—often destroy platelets, leaving patients vulnerable to severe bleeding and infections.

Unfortunately, the need is growing. According to America’s Blood Centers, in 2021, pediatric patients in the U.S. were transfused with 92,000 units of platelets. That number is up from 2019 when 79,000 platelets were transfused. There has also been an increase in transfusions for neonatal patients. A recent study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found pediatric cancer is on the rise. Despite the growing need, donations are lagging. Only about two to three percent of eligible donors actually give platelets.

Blood Assurance: Supplying Platelets to Local Hospitals

As a nonprofit blood center, Blood Assurance supplies platelets to local hospitals, including those treating pediatric cancer and trauma patients. But maintaining that supply depends entirely on the generosity of donors.

“We’re not just asking for donations; we’re asking people to be heroes,” said Garry Allison, Senior Vice President of Operations for Blood Assurance. “A single platelet donation can be the difference between a mother holding her child for another day or not. It’s about giving someone another chance at life, at hope. We need more people to step up, to realize the impact they can make, and to understand that this isn’t just about numbers or goals—it’s about saving lives, one donation at a time.”

Because platelets have a short shelf life of just seven days, the need is constant. Platelet donations must be replenished weekly to meet hospital demand.

How Platelet Donation Works

The platelet donation process, also called apheresis, involves drawing blood, separating the platelets using a machine, and returning the remaining components to your body. The process typically takes 90 minutes to two hours, and most donors describe it as comfortable.

Unlike whole blood, you can donate platelets as often as every seven days, up to 24 times per year.

Who Is Eligible to Donate Platelets?

You may be eligible to donate platelets with Blood Assurance if you:

· Are at least 17 years old (or 16 with parental consent)

· Weigh at least 110 pounds

· Are in generally good health

Some medications and medical conditions may affect eligibility. If you’re unsure, call 1-800-962-0628 to speak with our staff about your specific situation.

We also encourage a diverse donor pool, as patients from minority backgrounds may require more closely matched platelets.

Platelet Donor Shortage: Why the Need Is Critical

Currently, there’s a shortage of platelet donors nationwide. Natural disasters, seasonal illnesses, and major holidays can disrupt regular donations, but the need never stops. Hospitals rely on a steady supply of platelets to treat patients daily. That’s why Blood Assurance needs committed donors to help ensure no patient goes without this lifesaving component.

Ways You Can Help Right Now

Becoming a platelet donor is one of the most impactful ways you can give back to your community.

· Donate platelets at any Blood Assurance center or mobile drive near you. Appointments are encouraged but not required.

· Host a mobile drive at your workplace, church, civic group, or school. We’ll help you every step of the way!

· Spread the word by encouraging friends, family, and coworkers to donate.

Donating costs you nothing—but means everything to someone in need. If you’ve never donated platelets before, now is the perfect time. You can make a difference today. Schedule your donation today!