BLOG / News

Whether or not you’ve ever donated blood, it’s something that should be on your to-do list for 2025. With someone in the United States needing donated blood every 2 seconds, there is no time like this month to donate. And in case you’re still on the fence about whether or not you should, we want to make sure our patients are aware of some of the reasons why donating blood is a great idea.

1. You can save lives

   Did you know that by donating blood just one time, you could save up to three lives? Because donations are often separated into plasma, red blood cells, and platelets, your blood could help treat multiple medical conditions.

2. You could see some health benefits

   While you’re likely to donate blood for altruistic reasons, the potential benefits to your health are added bonuses. Various studies have shown that donating blood can:

   • reduce blood thickening in the body
   • make someone less likely to suffer a heart attack
   • cause the body to burn around 600 calories
   • lower the risk of developing some cancers

3. You can contribute to your community’s wellbeing 

   By donating blood in Fountain Hills, you’re helping to ensure that your neighbors have access to life-saving measures when they need it. Donated blood can be used to treat blood disorders, organ transplants, cancer recovery, organ failure, life-threatening injuries, and much more. Every minute that someone in medical need has to go without the blood they require raises their mortality rate.

4. Donated blood has a shelf life

   Unfortunately, donating blood isn’t a one-and-done act of goodwill. Most donations can only be stored for a limited period of time; for example, platelets can only be preserved for about 5-7 days. Not only do hospitals and other Arizona medical facilities such as Fountain Hills Medical Center rely on donated blood on a regular basis, but the supply needs to be regularly replenished.

5. You’ll love knowing you made a difference

   Doing a good deed such as donating blood in Fountain Hills can improve your mental health. Those who help others can enjoy a reduction in stress, increase in self-esteem, and a reduction in feelings of depression.

As a note of caution, there are some people who should not donate blood. This can include those who are not feeling well, those who weigh under 110 pounds, those diagnosed with certain cancers or other serious medical conditions, those who have recently traveled to a malaria-risk country, and those who have donated too recently. Always talk with your medical provider to determine whether you’re a good candidate to donate blood.

Since January is National Blood Donor Month, we want to acknowledge and celebrate our patients who are already regular donors, and provide encouragement to those who have not yet started participating in this important practice. By giving about 45 minutes of your day a few times per year, you can make a significant difference in the health of your community.