The Indicator from Planet Money · Tuesday, August 4, 2026
The American Red Cross has declared a national blood supply crisis, a rare event only previously seen during the pandemic. This shortage is attributed to both increased demand from summer injuries and a decrease in donations, partly due to younger donors being out of school. Environmental factors like extreme heat and poor air quality are also contributing to people staying home and not donating.
“The American Red Cross has declared a national blood supply crisis, and they say this is only the second time ever that they have done this.”
“I think one of the most important things for folks to realize is that one in seven patients entering a hospital will need a blood transfusion.”
“So, if more folks don't come out and give in the days and weeks ahead, doctors will really face very difficult choices about who receives blood and who has to wait.”