The act of donating blood can help save lives. Each day, people in hospitals across the U.S. need lifesaving blood transfusions. 🩸 Blood transfusions help treat people who: Have had a traumatic injury Need surgery Are receiving care for cancer or blood disorders Have just given birth Are premature babies About 11 million people in the U.S. donate blood every year, and people receive more than 14 million units of blood through blood transfusions. One unit contains about 1 pint of blood. Blood is essential for life. It contains components that transport oxygen throughout your body and also fight infection. There’s no artificial substitute for blood — only your body can make blood. Many people depend on lifesaving transfusions for severe medical conditions. Healthcare providers can use four separate components of your blood: -Red blood cells. Providers use red blood cells to treat people with anemia, or people who’ve lost a lot of blood due to traumatic injuries or surgery. -Plasma. Providers give plasma to people with rare diseases, serious infections or burns, and liver failure. -Platelets. Platelets clot blood when cuts and other wounds occur. Providers also use platelets in cancer treatment and organ transplants. -Cryoprecipitated antihemophilic factor (AHF). Providers also use AHF for clotting factors (proteins that help your blood clot). There are some basic blood donation requirements you must meet to ensure the safety of both you and the people receiving your blood. Most people can donate blood as long as they’re in good health. If you have a cold or the flu on your scheduled day to give blood, you should cancel your appointment and reschedule once you’re feeling better