What Happens To Unused Blood After It’s Been Donated?
Blood banks don’t want you to know this.
Welcome to the Glad You Asked series, a shame-free zone where we tackle topics you’re too embarrassed to ask even your BFF about. Don’t worry, we gotchu
After September 11, the Red Cross received over 475,000 units of blood. (One unit = about 1 pint.) There was just one problem: Only 258 units were required to treat the 139 hospitalized survivors.
Blood donation is a surprisingly sensitive subject. Blood banks are loath to disclose how much blood gets thrown away every year, fearing that these figures will dissuade potential donors from volunteering their time and bodily fluids.
The Red Cross supplies about 40% of America’s blood stock. The organization conducts over 145,000 blood drives a year, soliciting donations from volunteers.
The blood donated in the aftermath of 9/11 didn’t completely go to waste: The Red Cross used much of the excess to treat other patients around the country. Some of the blood, however, still…
