HOUSTON – MD Anderson Cancer Center is in need of blood donations, and the center is looking to raise awareness throughout Houston to increase the number of those donations.
Blood donation is an essential part of healthcare. In fact, MD Anderson says cancer patients need approximately 200 units of red blood cells and 600 units of platelets each day.
The MD Anderson Blood Bank depends on local blood and platelet donors to meet the need, and it is an especially great need as we navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic.
The only way to ensure blood goes directly to MD Anderson patients is to donate at one of the MD Anderson Blood Bank locations or through an MD Anderson community blood drive.
Is it safe to donate blood during the pandemic?
It is safe to donate blood right now, and your blood donation will help ensure there is an adequate blood supply for the Center’s patients during this critical time.
The staff is keeping donors and staff safe via multiple methods, including:
- All staff must wear PPE, and all donors must wear masks.
- Everyone entering the donor area undergoes a temperature check and CDC Risk Evaluation.
- Hand sanitizer is provided, and donor beds are sanitized between each donor.
- Extra space between donor beds.
- Appointment-only (no walk-ins) to manage social distancing.
“Blood donors are critical to helping our patients, like Lindsay, reach remission,” says our Dr. Hagop Kantarjian. #EndCancer
Posted by MD Anderson Cancer Center on Monday, October 26, 2020
Cancer doesn’t stop -- even during a global pandemic. MD Anderson remains committed to providing exceptional cancer care, and that includes going above and beyond to create the safest possible environment for Its patients and workforce.
There are numerous locations where anyone can donate, including:
- The main Blood Bank on Holly Hall Street.
- Texas Medical Center.
- Community blood drives throughout the city.
Find a location to donate and sign up for an appointment at the MD Anderson Blood Bank’s website.