KUAR | By Alexandria Brown
Several factors are contributing to Arkansas experiencing a shortage of blood. The Arkansas Blood Institute says it has already been challenged by fewer people donating blood since the start of the pandemic more than two years ago. Now, national supply chain issues are exacerbating the problem.
“Double red cells are important because it allows us to collect the equivalent of two blood donations in one visit from a donor,” said Executive Director Mario Sedlock. “The average donor donates just under twice a year. So, if a person donates double red cells when they come in, just assuming that they donate twice a year, that actually doubles the donation from that donor who does a double red cell procedure.”
Blood donation rates in the summer are usually low because more than 20% of donations come from high school and college students. With most schools being out for the summer, Sedlock said that’s a significant hit to people who need blood.
Michael Hibblen/KUAR News
A donor gives blood at the Arkansas Blood Institute location in Little Rock in January.