June 14th is World Blood Donor Day
Key facts
- June 14th is World Blood Donor Day
- In conjunction with World Blood Donor Day on June 14th, the Japanese Red Cross Society is calling for understanding and cooperation in blood donation. Since blood cannot be stored long-term and donor numbers are declining due to an aging population with a low birth rate, cooperation from the younger generation to support transfusion medicine is essential.
- Source: PR Times
- Date: June 11, 2026
Direct answer
In conjunction with World Blood Donor Day on June 14th, the Japanese Red Cross Society is calling for understanding and cooperation in blood donation. Since blood cannot be stored long-term and donor numbers are declining due to an aging population with a low birth rate, cooperation from the younger generation to support transfusion medicine is essential.
- Citation
- June 14th is World Blood Donor Day (June 11, 2026), PR Times
- Source
- PR Times
- Date
- June 11, 2026
In conjunction with World Blood Donor Day on June 14th, the Japanese Red Cross Society is calling for understanding and cooperation in blood donation. Since blood cannot be stored long-term and donor numbers are declining due to an aging population with a low birth rate, cooperation from the younger generation to support transfusion medicine is essential.
📋 Article Processing Timeline
- 📰 Published: June 11, 2026 at 01:10
- 🔍 Collected: June 10, 2026 at 16:21
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: June 10, 2026 at 16:29 (8 min after Collected)
June 14th is a global commemorative day observed by countries around the world to honor those who donate blood—a gift that saves lives—and to raise awareness that blood donation is indispensable for patients requiring transfusions. World Blood Donor Day is one of the global health days designated by the World Health Organization (WHO), and various events are held in countries worldwide.
The theme of this year's World Blood Donor Day is, “One Drop of Humanity. Give Blood. Save Lives.”
*June 14th holds special significance as the birthday of Karl Landsteiner, who discovered the ABO blood group system. The discovery of the ABO system in 1900 enabled the prevention of side effects and accidents caused by using incompatible blood during transfusions. Karl Landsteiner was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1930 for his discovery of the ABO blood group system.
● Understanding and cooperation from the younger generation are especially needed.
Most of the blood products for transfusion and plasma derivatives supported by blood donation are used for the medical care of the elderly, with approximately 88% of transfusion blood products being used by people aged 50 and over.
On the other hand, approximately 53% of those currently cooperating in blood donation are under the age of 50. This generation is not only supporting current transfusion medicine but is also crucial for taking on the future of transfusion medicine.
Currently, the number of blood donors in the younger age group (10s to 30s) is on a downward trend. As Japan's aging population and declining birth rate continue to progress, there is a risk that this will hinder stable supply in the future.
Because blood cannot be stored long-term, it is necessary to secure sufficient blood for transfusion to supply medical institutions stably. Understanding and cooperation, especially from the younger generation, are essential for future stable supply.
■ Campaigns are being held at each blood donation site by the Red Cross Blood Centers in the Kanto-Koshinetsu region.
Please check the website of each Red Cross Blood Center for details.
FAQ
When is World Blood Donor Day?
It is on June 14 every year, commemorating the birthday of Karl Landsteiner, who discovered the ABO blood group system.
Why was World Blood Donor Day established?
To show gratitude to blood donors, to highlight that blood donation is a gift that saves lives, and to raise awareness that blood donation is essential for patients who need transfusions.
What is the main use of blood for transfusions?
A significant portion is used for medical care of the elderly, with about 88% of blood products for transfusion being used by people aged 50 and over.
What is the current trend among blood donors?
About 53% of blood donors are under 50 years old, but the number of young donors (aged 10-30) is decreasing, raising concerns about future stable supply.
How long can blood be stored?
Blood cannot be stored long-term, so a continuous and sufficient supply through regular donations is essential for stable provision to medical facilities.