Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Feb. 4, 2026) — On World Cancer Day, Utahns can help cancer patients by donating platelets with the American Red Cross of Utah. This need is especially urgent as severe winter storms in other parts of the country temporarily closed donation centers in recent weeks, leaving more than 3,000 platelet donations uncollected nationwide.
“Platelet donations are essential in helping cancer patients through some of their most challenging moments,” said Benjamin Donner, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Central and Southern Utah Chapter. “On World Cancer Day, we honor the strength of patients and families facing cancer and thank donors whose generosity provides lifesaving care every day.”
How Platelets Support Cancer Patients
Platelets are a vital component of cancer care, helping prevent and control bleeding for patients undergoing treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. These treatments can damage bone marrow and reduce the body’s ability to produce healthy blood cells. Many cancer patients require multiple platelet transfusions each week as part of their recovery and care.
Nearly 40% of all donated platelets and about 25% of blood products are used in cancer treatment across the United States. With a shelf life of only five days, hospitals rely on a steady supply of platelet donations to ensure this lifesaving resource is available when patients need it.
Where to Donate Platelets on World Cancer Day
Utahns can make a lifesaving impact by donating platelets at one of these locations on World Cancer Day:
Donors can schedule an appointment through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcross.org/GiveBlood or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Use sponsor codes SaltLakeCityUT, LaytonUT or LehiUT to make an appointment at one of the donation centers.
What to Expect When Donating Platelets
Platelet donation, also known as apheresis, is a process that separates platelets from the blood and returns the remaining components, plasma, red cells and white cells, back to the donor. The procedure takes about two hours, during which donors can relax, watch a movie or listen to music. Platelets can be donated every seven days, up to 24 times a year.
About World Cancer Day
World Cancer Day, observed annually on Feb. 4, was established by the Union for International Cancer Control to raise global awareness, improve education and encourage action in the fight against cancer. The day unites communities worldwide to honor those affected by cancer and promote efforts that support prevention, treatment and care.
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.
