This chart shows the various blood types and their frequency in the U.S. population.

Blood is a living tissue composed of blood cells suspended in plasma. The cellular elements, red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets – make up about 45% of the volume of whole blood. Plasma, which is 92% water, makes up the remaining 55%.

The average adult has 8 – 12 pints of blood traveling all over his or her body through the heart, lungs, arteries, veins and capillaries. Blood is an essential part of our bodies that transports oxygen, nutrients, and metabolic waste. In addition to all that, blood performs these functions: Replenishes oxygen [...]

Blood and its components have many uses. Hospitals typically stock all types of red cells and some platelets and plasma. Hospitals order additional products as needed to meet patient needs. RRVBC is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to fill orders. Red cells can be used for 42 [...]

01. Anyone in good health, at least 17 years old (or 16 years old with parental consent – click here for consent form), and at least 110 pounds may donate whole blood every 56 days. 02. 4.5 million American lives are saved each year by blood transfusions. 03. 40,000 pints of [...]