Blood and tissue donations are a critical element in developing new treatments for diseases, further developing existing treatments, and assisting researchers in drug and vaccine development. Donors make it possible for patients to fight injuries and battle serious maladies. Conditions treated using blood and tissue donations include Leukemia, Lymphoma, Multiple Myeloma, Sickle Cell Disease, Tay-Sachs Disease, Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID), Osteoporosis, and Aplastic Anemia. ^{1, 2}

If you are interested in becoming a blood donor, please visit our Center Locator at BCA.coop to find the blood donation center nearest you. Your local blood center staff can speak with you to determine your eligibility to donate. The FDA is continuously revising donor eligibility guidelines, so individuals deemed ineligible in the past may now meet new eligibility standards for safe blood donation. Expectant parents may facilitate a simple and safe umbilical cord blood donation by speaking with their OB/GYN.