By Todd Hoffman, M.D.
Newsroom | Community Health
Office Visit: Blood Donation is a Lifesaving Act of Service
Jan. 5, 2026
After the holidays and during the cold winter months, we tend to slow down a bit, stay inside more and take time to reflect on our goals for the year ahead. This time of year is also when our blood banks tend to see a decline in donations due to reduced activity and illness.
January is National Blood Donor Awareness Month — a critical time to donate blood when supplies are low, but demand is high. According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, every two seconds someone in the United States needs blood. Unlike many other medical procedures, blood cannot be manufactured or synthesized — it can only come from human donors.
Most Americans are eligible to donate blood but only about 3% do each year. If you are in good health, at least 17 years old and weigh 110 pounds or more you should consider donating blood. One donation can save up to three lives.
Dr. Todd Hoffman
There are four major blood groups: A, B, AB and O. According to the American Red Cross, the most requested blood type is O. O negative because it is a universal donor and most often used in emergencies and O positive because it is the most frequently occurring blood type. However, all blood types and donations are needed. A diverse blood supply ensures that everyone has access to blood and blood products when they need it most.
You can make a difference in your community by donating blood and by encouraging others to do the same. To find a blood drive or donation center near you, visit Our Blood Institute.
Let’s make it a good month!
Todd Hoffman, M.D., C.P.E., is chief medical officer of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma, a division of Health Care Service Corp., a Mutual Legal Reserve Company.