AABB to honor blood-collection professionals worldwide

Blood collection professionals are the connection between blood donors and the life-saving blood therapies people rely on every day.  After a long holiday weekend like Labor Day in the United States, when donors are in short supply and accidents are typically on the rise, blood donation is even more important – and so is the job of blood-collection professionals.

Blood-collection professionals will be recognized in communities worldwide September 12-18, 2010, as part of the 6th Annual Blood Collectors Week, sponsored jointly by Fenwal Inc. and AABB (formerly known as the American Association of Blood Banks).  During the week, blood centers will host celebrations, often with local government officials, to recognize their staffs and donors.  Individuals are encouraged to give back to their respective communities and honor these professionals by contacting their local blood collection facility to schedule an appointment to donate blood.

"Blood collectors play a vital role in the transfusion medicine community as they are charged with making every effort to provide a positive experience for the blood donor," said Karen Shoos Lipton, chief executive officer of AABB.  "These professionals help ensure that blood is readily available to patients whenever and wherever it is needed."

According to AABB data, approximately 30 million blood components are transfused annually in the United States alone.  Blood transfusions are a critical component in the treatment of patients with serious medical conditions, from cancer to major surgery, as well as accident and trauma victims.  People typically receive transfusions of red blood cells, platelets or plasma.  Red blood cells are the most frequently needed blood component.

"The need for blood never stops, and the knowledge and commitment of blood collectors help assure blood is available to meet the need for critical medical therapies," said Ron Labrum, Fenwal president and chief executive officer.  "Blood Collectors Week is a tribute to this important profession and Fenwal is honored to partner with AABB, blood centers and communities nationwide to recognize these outstanding professionals."

Blood collection organizations estimate that every two seconds someone in the United States needs blood.  Blood donors are the only source of blood for transfusion.

Blood collectors serve an important role helping individuals select the best donation option based on local blood supply needs, their blood type and donor qualifications.  Type O negative is the universal blood type for red cells, and type AB is the universal blood type for platelets and plasma.  To donate blood, one must be healthy, and meet age, weight and other donor requirements.