The American Red Cross says the US is facing a blood supply crisis, marking only the second time in its history that it has made such a declaration. The warning comes as the organization reports a worsening gap between available donations and the amount of blood hospitals and patients need.
According to the report, the shortage has been driven by two pressures at once: fewer people are donating blood, while demand has increased. That combination has tightened supplies across the country and added strain to a system that depends on steady donations to meet routine and emergency needs.
The American Red Cross is the largest single blood supplier in the United States, providing about 40% of the nation’s blood supply. It is currently distributing roughly 3,500 more units than is typical for this time of year, a sign of how unusual the current demand has become.
The situation highlights how quickly the blood supply can come under pressure when donations slow and usage rises. With one of the country’s main suppliers under added strain, the shortage has become a broader national health concern.
