Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Behind each life-saving transfusion is a generous donor who made it possible. Despite this ongoing need, the number of new and returning Red Cross blood donors has decreased by approximately 80,000 each year for the past four years.
Blood donations are crucial for patients across all ages—whether they are accident victims, burn victims, heart surgery or organ transplant patients, or those battling cancer. By donating blood, you offer hope and courage to patients eager to live healthier, fuller lives.
Your blood donation is urgently needed. Even if you have recently traveled abroad or have a tattoo, you may still be eligible to donate. This guide addresses common questions to help you make an informed decision to donate blood.
Myth #1: Tattoos disqualify me from donating blood.
Fact: In most states, you can donate blood immediately after getting a tattoo, provided it was done by a state-regulated facility using sterile needles and ink that wasn’t reused.
Important: If you got your tattoo in Georgia, Idaho, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, Utah, Wyoming, or Washington D.C., you may need to wait 12 months before donating due to the lack of regulation in tattoo facilities. Consult with the Red Cross health historian at the time of your donation to clarify your eligibility.
For more information, visit Blood Donation Eligibility
Myth #2: Medications or medicinal cannabis use disqualify me from donating.
Fact: Most medications won’t prevent you from donating blood, though some may require a waiting period. If your condition is under control and you’re in good health, you can usually donate. Over-the-counter medications, herbal remedies, and nutritional supplements are also generally acceptable. Be sure to share all relevant information during your health review.
For more information, call 1-866-236-3276.
Myth #3: High blood pressure, cholesterol, or low iron levels make me ineligible to donate.
Fact: You can donate blood if your blood pressure is below 180/100 at the time of donation. Medications for high blood pressure do not disqualify you. If you’ve been deferred due to low iron, you can work on increasing your levels and try donating again in the future.
Myth #4: International travel disqualifies me from donating.
Fact: Travel to malaria-risk regions within the last three years, or extended stays in areas with “mad cow disease,” may temporarily defer your eligibility. Check the travel eligibility guidelines for more details.
Myth #5: Blood donation is painful.
Fact: Experiences vary, but our trained staff will do everything possible to make your donation comfortable. Remember, the few moments of discomfort are outweighed by the lives you help save.
Notes: Donation frequency may be adjusted if you donate multiple types of blood products.
Being “healthy” means you feel well and can perform normal activities. If you have a chronic condition like diabetes, it must be under control.
For specific cases, higher requirements may apply. Please check with your donor center.
– **Every two seconds**, someone in the U.S. needs blood.
– **36,000 units of red blood cells** are needed every day.
– **7,000 units of platelets** and **10,000 units of plasma** are needed daily.
– **21 million blood components** are transfused each year.
– **Type O blood** is most frequently requested by hospitals.
– **Sickle cell disease** affects 90,000 to 100,000 people in the U.S., and these patients often require blood transfusions.
– A **single car accident victim** may require up to 100 pints of blood.
The Red Cross supplies approximately 40% of the nation’s blood, but only about 10% of eligible donors give blood each year. Every donation counts.
