As World Blood Donor Day approaches, health experts are sounding the alarm on a persistent and urgent need: more Black blood donors. This call is especially vital for patients with sickle cell disease, a hereditary blood disorder that disproportionately affects Black Americans.
Dr. Daniela Hermelin, chief medical officer for ImpactLife, explained that sickle cell disease causes red blood cells to take on a sickle shape, leading to blocked blood flow and complications like strokes, pain crises, and premature death. “Although there are no standard treatments,” Hermelin said, “blood transfusions are a cornerstone of supportive care.”
But not just any blood will do. Scott Marder of the American Red Cross noted that more than 300 red blood cell antigens exist, and some are unique to specific racial and ethnic groups. “People who have sickle cell disease and these blood types often receive the most compatible blood from donors in the Black community,” he said.
Despite this need, only 2% of current blood donors in the UK are of African heritage, and African countries collect far fewer donations per capita than recommended by the World Health Organization. In the U.S., mistrust in the medical system, poor outreach, and eligibility issues continue to limit participation.
Efforts by organizations like the Red Cross and ImpactLife aim to close these gaps through education and community partnerships. As Marder put it, “The need for blood is constant,” and for many patients, the right match can mean the difference between life and death.
See: “World Blood Donor Day Spotlights Urgent Need for Black Blood Donors” (June 12, 2025)