Platelets aid in the clotting process to prevent or stop bleeding, and are vital in helping a patient with leukemia or other cancers. Due to recent advances in the treatment of these serious illnesses, the demand for platelets is growing dramatically. Components collected from whole blood donations can no longer meet current demands. With one apheresis donation, the amount of platelets collected is six to eight times more than a regular blood donation. Each blood component has an important function.
Plasma carries other clotting factors and helps treat coagulation disorders.
Red blood cells carry oxygen and help treat anemia, trauma and burn patients. White blood cells combat infection. Because platelets are used in treating numerous serious health problems such as leukemia, cancer and aplastic anemia, they can often mean the difference between life and death. Due to recent advances in the treatment of these serious illnesses, the demand for platelets is growing dramatically. Whole blood donations alone can no longer meet current needs.