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M. White
The Cleveland Observer
Blood is invaluable. It saves lives in just minutes of donating. According to the American Society of Hematology, blood consists of four key components: plasma, red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, all of which are crucial to healing and saving lives.
Gunshot and stabbing victims often require donated blood, but many donations come from individuals lacking melanin. According to Mayor Bibb’s 2023 Violence & Injury Report, Cleveland’s gun violence rate exceeds the national average, with 102.1 emergency room visits per 100,000 residents due to gunshot wounds in 2023—about 368 victims. While this is a decrease from 2022, the figures remain alarming.
Data from the National Library of Medicine in 2022 showed that Black individuals made up 48.7% of all gunshot wound hospitalizations, and 12.7% of those required blood transfusions. Black males aged 18-24 are the most affected group in Cuyahoga County.
Despite this, Black blood donors are disproportionately low compared to white donors, creating a critical need for donations from Black individuals.
According to the Red Cross, blood donations are more effective when the antigens closely match those of the recipient. Antigens, which help the body recognize harmful substances, vary among ethnicities. Blood with matching antigens reduces complications during transfusions, making it vital that Black individuals donate blood, especially for Black gunshot victims and patients with sickle cell disease.
There are numerous reasons people avoid donating, such as a fear of needles, lack of time, or concerns about contamination. However, the blood donation process takes just 35 minutes and involves a quick needle prick. The body replenishes plasma within 24 hours and red blood cells within six weeks. The risk of contamination is virtually nonexistent due to strict protocols.
The need for Black, Indigenous, and people of color to donate blood is urgent. Whether for sickle cell disease patients, cancer patients, or victims of gun violence, donated blood can save lives. One pint of blood can help up to three people.
If you know a Black male, a sickle cell patient, a cancer patient, or someone at risk of injury, consider donating blood. Your gift can save lives.
Give the gift of life. Give blood.
