Sickle cell disease is a mutation of blood cells that often leads to clogged veins and arteries. To prevent these blockages from leading to strokes, patients often need to receive monthly blood transfusions. The condition is painful and life threatening to cure.
Blood types O and B are most prevalent in Black communities with an estimated 50% of Black people having O blood type, which is the most needed by blood banks. However only 1% of the Black community donates blood each year.
This statistic is startling and ironic because blood banks were actually founded by a Black man.
Dr. Charles Drew is known for designing a system that provided immediate and safe transfusion of blood plasma that could be preserved and used in times of emergencies. His work has saved so many lives, he’s been called the “Father of Blood Banks.”
Without him we may not have the ability to save lives by donating blood and plasma. This is why the low blood donation rate is especially disheartening. With just one donation, we can help someone with sickle cell and other diseases.
As a community, we can honor Dr. Drew’s legacy by participating in local blood drives and encouraging our family and friends to do the same.