People of

all blood types are encouraged to give, but those with

blood type O are especially needed. Type O blood, called

the universal blood type, is most often used to treat

trauma patients. Type O blood is also the most common,

with approximately 45-percent of the population sharing

that blood type.

Due to

cancer treatment, accidents, organ transplant, and

trauma, no one knows when they may need blood to stay

alive. In fact nine out of 10 Americans who live to be 72

years of age will require blood products some time during

their lives. The need for blood remains relatively

constant throughout the year, and the demand is growing

due to medical advances and technology that rely on blood

products to help patients lead healthier lives.

Nationally,

patients use 40,000 units of red blood cells each day.

The American red Cross Blood Services, Southern region,

provides blood products to more than 200 hospitals and

health care facilities in Georgia, South Carolina and

North Florida. Southern region must collect approximately

1,200 units of blood each weekday to meet the needs of

patients. One out of every four units of blood collected

in the Southern region is used in the treatment of cancer

and leukemia.

Most

healthy people who are at least 17 years of age and weigh

110 pounds or more can give blood. The donation process

is safe. only sterile bags, tubing and needles are used

for each donation and then destroyed. Most healthy people

can give blood every 56 days. For more information, call

your local Red Cross at 1-800-GIVE-LIFE. For a list of

upcoming blood drives, visit them on the web at www.redcross.org/Atlanta .