Think you can’t donate blood? Think again! There are a lot of misconceptions about what might make you ineligible to donate blood.
The eligibility criteria for blood donation is extensive to help protect both donors and patients, but the criteria is always changing with the support of updated medical research and data. Something that used to cause a wait period to donate blood, such as getting a new tattoo, or traveling abroad, may no longer result in a deferral from blood donation.
Check out this video where we debunk a few of the most common blood donation myths and learn more about the current eligibility criteria on our eligibility page.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
Support all the urgent humanitarian needs of the American Red Cross.
Find a drive and schedule a blood donation appointment today.
Take a class and be ready to respond if an emergency strikes.
