Are you eligible to give blood?

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Thirty-eight. That’s the percentage of the U.S. population that is eligible to give blood.

Of that 38 percent, only a fraction of those eligible actually donate, according to the American Red Cross.

“Many potential donors think that if they have high blood pressure or diabetes, they can’t give blood,” said Geoff Kaufmann, CEO of the local Red Cross Blood Services region. “In many cases, you are still considered healthy and able to donate. If you bring a list of your medications to your donation appointment, our staff can help determine if you are eligible to donate that day.”

The American Red Cross has specially trained staff at every blood drive to help determine donor eligibility in a confidential setting prior to donation. Visit givebloodgivelife.org to download a Personal Health Record form to help keep track of your health information.

Eligibility guidelines can change periodically. If you were previously deferred from donating, you can contact the American Red Cross to see if a restriction that prevented you from donating in the past has changed.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities include:

• September 23, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Armory, 311 Broadway Street, Alexandria.

To donate blood, call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or visit givebloodgivelife.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in.

Individuals who are 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in general good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors younger than 19 also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

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