Media contact: Sarah Martin
Regional Communications Manager
sarah.martin5@redcross.org | 951-432-9625
SALT LAKE CITY (September 9, 2023) — The American Red Cross is emphasizing the importance of a diverse blood supply during Sickle Cell Awareness Month this September. This is crucial to meeting the needs of Utahns with sickle cell disease, the most prevalent inherited blood disorder in the U.S.
Over 100,000 people in the U.S., primarily of African descent, are affected by sickle cell disease. Regular blood transfusions can help manage the severe pain and potentially fatal complications associated with this disorder. Fortunately, one in three African American blood donors is a match for sickle cell patients.
“Sickle Cell Awareness Month brings focus to our continuing efforts to combat sickle cell disease through blood donations and awareness campaigns,” said Michael Smauldon, Executive Director of the American Red Cross, Northern Utah & Southwest Wyoming Chapter. “With community support, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by sickle cell and help ensure more people have access to lifesaving treatments and resources.”
By donating blood this fall, donors are supporting those Utahns managing sickle cell symptoms and other patients dependent on blood transfusions. Schedule your donation through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, online at RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Health insights for donors
About 1 in 13 Black or African American newborns in the U.S. has the sickle cell trait. Many are unaware of they carry this trait. The Red Cross now tests all donations from self-identified multiracial or Black or African American blood donors for the sickle cell trait to provide valuable health insights. “This additional screening helps the Red Cross identify compatible blood types quickly to help sickle cell patients,” Smauldon said. “Our screening provides Black blood donors with valuable personal health insight.”
Partners in our Red Cross Sickle Cell Work
This year, the Red Cross is teaming up with mentorship-focused organizations like 100 Black Men of America, Inc.; Kier’s Hope Foundation, Inc.; historically Black colleges and universities; member organizations of the National Pan-Hellenic Council; the Black Radio Hall of Fame, and others. These partners are supporting patients with sickle cell disease by hosting blood drives. For more information, visit RedCrossBlood.org/OurBlood.
Understanding Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle cell disease distorts soft, round blood cells, turning them hard and crescent shaped. “This can cause the cells to get caught in blood vessels and trigger severe pain, potentially leading to stroke and organ failure,” said Dr. Walter Kelley, Medical Director for the Rocky Mountain Division of the American Red Cross. “Transfusions provide healthy blood cells, unblocking blood vessels, delivering oxygen and minimizing the crises sickle cell patients may face.”
Learn more about testing for sickle cell trait from self-identified Black blood donors and how the American Red Cross has been fighting the disease at redcrossblood.org/sicklecell.
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 visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.