(NAPSA)—While the majority of Americans agree that blood donation is a great way to serve the community, only one in 10 say they donate blood regularly. These are twoof the key findings of a new study conducted on behalf of the American Red Cross Save A Life Tour 2003. Experts say the study reveals a lack of understanding on the part of the public about the importance of donating blood. According to the survey results, nearly 18 million adults do not feel their blood donation would make a difference and another 13 million don’t understand the blood donation process. At the same time, the demand for blood is clear. Research shows that every two seconds, someone in America needs blood. Every day 38,000 donations are needed in i a Ee, i According to a recent survey, millions of American adults do not think their blood donation makesa difference. “By traveling to more than 345 the United States to help save the communities,” said Marsha J. victims, children with blood disorders and others. In order to encourage more eligible Americans to donate blood regularly, the Red Cross has embarked ona sixmonth nationwide campaign called the Save A Life Tour 2003. Since May, two convoys have been traveling to communities across the country to educate the public about the donation process and the difference just one pint of blood can make in someone’slife. Serving as the centerpiece of the convoy is an interactive can Red Cross, “the Save A Life Tour life of cancer patients, accident mobile museum, a custom vehicle outfitted with interactive video displays, many of which are available in Spanish, to teach visitors about the need for blood. Evans, president and CEO, Ameri- 2008 will help dispel the misperceptions about blood donation and the donation process. We continue to encourage businesses, organi- zations and communities to take part in this life saving process.” The survey also showed that 11 percent ofAmericansdo not donate blood because they don’t know who will receive their donation. Five percent do not donate blood because they do not believe there is a blood shortage, whenin fact, our nation’s blood supply is just two days away from running out. To learn more about the tour and the Red Cross, visit the Web site at givelife.org or call 1-800GIVE LIFE.
