(NewsUSA) - What would you do if you felt your child´s school wasn't helping them reach their full potential? For a growing number of parents, the answer is to look for alternatives. According to a recent survey, six out of ten parents considered switching their child’s school during the last year, reflecting the shifting expectations families have for education today.

As families move to new areas, their priorities for education often change. Smaller counties with fewer than 30,000 people have gained population, while more families are leaving the nation’s largest urban counties, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. These shifts are reshaping communities, and how parents think about their children’s education.

Public school enrollment has declined by 2.5% since 2019, with the largest decreases occurring in pre-K through 8th grade, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. These declines coincide with a rise in interest in other educational options, including public charter, magnet, private, online learning, homeschooling and microschooling. Parents are taking an active role in finding environments that meet their children’s unique needs, whether that means staying in the public school system or looking beyond it.

This decline is also tied to larger demographic trends. Birth rates in the United States have been falling for over a decade, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reporting a 2% drop in births from 2022 to 2023. Lower birth rates mean fewer children entering school each year. Combined with population shifts, these trends are reshaping how and where families access education.

Younger parents, Black and Hispanic families, and military households are among those most likely to explore alternatives. For many, it’s not about dissatisfaction, it’s about seeking the best possible fit for their children’s needs, interests, and learning styles.

Traditional public schools serve millions of families, but declining enrollment reflects the growing need for more adaptable education options. Hawaii, for example, has seen a 6.5% drop in enrollment since 2019, while North Dakota has experienced a 2.5% increase. At the same time, charter school enrollment nationwide grew by more than 80,000 students last year, and homeschooling remains one of the fastest-growing education models. These trends reflect families’ increasing awareness of the variety of options available to them.

This January, National School Choice Week (Jan. 26 to Feb. 1) will provide families with an opportunity to explore these options. With over 27,000 events planned nationwide, parents can learn about public, charter, private, online, and homeschooling models to determine what works best for their children.

As interest, and enrollment, in different types of schools continues to change, states are responding by creating policies that empower parents to make choices between many different school types. That means more solutions, and more hope, for families who want to help their child succeed.

Shelby Doyle is the vice president of public awareness at the National School Choice Awareness Foundation, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that hosts National School Choice Week each January and maintains the nation’s largest online portfolio of English- and Spanish-language school navigation resources. She lives in Nashville, TN with her family.

(NewsUSA) - 1. Immerse Yourself in the Extraordinary Culture of Sedona

Sedona's breathtaking red rock formations are matched only by its vibrant cultural experiences. The city is a haven for creativity, featuring world-class galleries, an incredible food scene, and exciting events. Don't miss Exposures International Gallery of Fine Art, one of the largest galleries in the Southwest, where you can admire stunning sculptures, glass art, and paintings.

Stroll along the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, a charming enclave modeled after a traditional Mexican village. Here, you'll find boutique galleries, artisan shops, and opportunities to meet the artists themselves.

Don't miss one-of-a-kind stores like The Artists Kitchen, offering unique culinary-inspired art and goods, or explore other distinctive boutiques in the area such as Good JuJu, known for its eclectic and inspiring finds.

Sedona is also home to many annual festivals like Sedona International Film Festival and Sedona Winefest.  For a guide to everything happening during your visit be sure to visit the Northern Arizona Event Calendar. For food lovers, Sedona boasts an impressive culinary scene, with standout restaurants, great coffee shops, and dining with incredible views

For outdoor enthusiasts, Sedona's natural beauty provides endless opportunities for both physical and spiritual exploration. Embark on the iconic Cathedral Rock Trail, a moderately challenging hike that rewards visitors with stunning views of Sedona's red rock landscape. Visit a vortex, a world-class spa, or many other wellness opportunities like Horse, Heart, & Connection.  Whether you're looking for culture, cuisine, or outdoor adventure, Sedona has something for everyone.

2. Sip and Savor in Cottonwood's Wine Country

Just a short drive from Sedona, Cottonwood is a rising star in Arizona's burgeoning wine industry. Nestled in the Verde Valley, this quaint town offers a delightful mix of rustic charm and sophisticated tasting experiences. Visit Merkin Vineyards Tasting Room & Osteria, where you can sample exquisite wines made from locally grown grapes. Pair your wine with house-made pasta or other farm-to-table delights for a truly memorable experience.

For a more in-depth look at the winemaking process, head to one of the nearby vineyards for a tour. Many wineries in the area practice sustainable farming, adding an eco-friendly touch to your visit. Cottonwood's wine country is perfect for oenophiles and casual wine enthusiasts alike.

3. Stargazing in Flagstaff: Embrace Astrotourism

Flagstaff, designated as the world's first International Dark Sky City, is a haven for stargazers. The city's commitment to preserving dark skies has made astrotourism a leading travel trend. Join guided night sky tours or visit the Lowell Observatory to marvel at the celestial wonders above. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or a curious traveler, the starry skies of Flagstaff are truly magical.

4. Step Back in Time in Jerome: History and Charm

Perched on Cleopatra Hill, the historic town of Jerome offers a fascinating glimpse into Northern Arizona's mining past. Once known as the "Wickedest Town in the West," Jerome is now a vibrant arts community with a rich history.

Begin your visit with lunch at The Asylum Restaurant, located in the historic Jerome Grand Hotel. Enjoy stunning views of the Verde Valley while dining in this beautifully restored former hospital. Then, head to the Jerome State Historic Park or explore the Copper Art Museum, which features an impressive collection of artifacts that highlight the region's mining legacy and artistic craftsmanship.

Jerome's eclectic mix of historic sites, unique shops, and cool bars make it a must-visit destination for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

5. Travel Responsibly

As you explore Northern Arizona, it's essential to travel responsibly to preserve the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region. Here are some tips:

• Respect Nature: Stay on designated trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and leave no trace.
• Support Local: Choose locally owned businesses, artisans, and restaurants to contribute to the community.
• Be Culturally Sensitive: When visiting Native American sites, adhere to guidelines and respect the traditions of local tribes.

Northern Arizona's blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historic charm ensures a travel experience that is both diverse and enriching. Whether you're exploring Sedona's art scene, sipping wines in Cottonwood, or marveling at the stars in Flagstaff, this region promises memories that will last a lifetime.  Everything you could possibly need to begin your journey; you will find on sedonamonthly.com

(NewsUSA) - The development of technical standards is an often overlooked, but is an essential element in global technology leadership. The United States must be proactive to develop these standards, in addition to technology research and innovation, to stay ahead of our top competitor, China, according to Ananmay Agarwal, an expert at the Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP), a nonprofit and nonpartisan initiative with a goal of making recommendations to strengthen America's long-term competitiveness in AI.

In a recent podcast, Agarwal discussed the need for the U.S. to pay attention to technology standards; although standards are not mandatory, they may be widely adopted and are often incorporated into domestic laws or regulations. Taking the lead in technical standards will ensure that AI and other emerging technologies embody American values and support U.S. interests, Agarwal said.

The U.S. relies on private sector leadership and innovation, with regulations asking agencies to develop consensus standards. Globally, international standards development organizations (SDOs), such as the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) facilitate development of standards through consensus.

In the U.S., the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) coordinates federal efforts in developing standards while providing technical expertise, and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) oversees compliance with federal standards policy, Agarwal said.

By contrast, China takes a centralized, top-down approach to standards and prioritizes AI, autonomous platforms, robotics, and telecommunications, said Agarwal. “By influencing standards early, China is positioning itself to embed its own technologies and protocols into global standards, giving its companies a competitive edge and ensuring Chinese products are interoperable across global markets,” he said.

During the first Trump administration, the U.S. successfully developed standards on emerging technologies such as post-quantum cryptography and pushed for leadership in AI standards through the American AI Initiative and Executive Order 13859.

During the second Trump administration, continued attention to technology standards is needed, Agarwal said. He urged federal agencies to prioritize collaboration with industry to develop and promote technology standards, and to strengthen partnerships with international allies and international standards bodies. “The United States should offer competing standards to ensure developing countries are not locked into China’s standards,” Agarwal added.

In addition, a proliferation in Chinese-led standards could increase China’s leverage in global supply chains and networks and jeopardize national security by enabling espionage, data theft, and strategic dependencies, said Agarwal.

“The race for standards-setting is about more than just technology; it's about the future of global governance, national security, and economic power,” Agarwal said in his podcast. “By strengthening alliances, enhancing public-private collaboration in strategic areas, and promoting transparent standards, the United States can safeguard its technological leadership and foster a global technological environment that supports innovation, security, and shared prosperity,” he said. 

Visit scsp.ai to learn more.

(NewsUSA) - Thanks to the unwavering generosity of the American public, National Corporate Partners, businesses and organizations, 874 Chapter Coordinators, and tens of thousands of dedicated volunteers, Toys for Tots reached new heights in 2024 – providing toys, books, and other gifts to over 12 million children in need!

“The dedication and generosity we witnessed from our donors last year was nothing short of extraordinary,” said LtGen Laster, CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. “Every donation, large or small, made a significant impact, brightening the lives of children in need. We are deeply inspired by the continued spirit of kindness that fuels our mission, and we are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support we received,” he said.

With the collective support of communities nationwide, the Toys for Tots Program spreads joy and hope to those who need it most and ensures that millions of disadvantaged children are provided with comfort and emotional relief during challenging times.

While the heart of Toys for Tots is the Holiday Campaign, the Program’s efforts extend far beyond Christmastime. “Our mission to deliver hope to children in need is a year-round endeavor, and we continue to strive to be a beacon of optimism and light,” LtGen Laster said.

As 2025 begins, Toys for Tots renews its mission to turn good intentions into meaningful action. "It's a fresh chapter to reaffirm our purpose, set new goals, and unite to make a difference for the children in our great Nation,” LtGen Laster emphasizes.

“Our donors' generosity ignites hope, sparks imagination, and creates lasting memories,” he added. Every donation and toy distributed brings us closer to a world where every child receives emotional support when needed—and every child is reminded that they are not forgotten.

As part of our year-round force for good, we stand ready to assist those in the wake of natural disasters, like the children of families who were so tragically affected by the devastating California wildfires. After the basic necessities are provided, Toys for Tots will be ready to deliver hope and comfort to children in communities surrounding Los Angeles through emotional relief packages. 

Together, we can be an even stronger force for good and make the world a brighter place—one toy, one book, one smile, and one heart at a time.

To learn more about Toys for Tots or to make a donation, please visit www.toysfortots.org.

(NewsUSA) - Face the Storm by C.D. Kreger

This is the author’s intimate and courageous memoir of growing up and surviving an environment of mental illness, religious zealotry, and sexual abuse. She tells an extremely compelling story, recounting her experiences with those around her who should have been trustworthy and protected her. She digs deep into her past and shares what shattered her life most, then uses it to uplift other victims of such heinous crimes into a space of healing.

CD Kreger has bravely and boldly faced storms in coming forward sharing her story. The devastating fact is that it isn’t just her story, but is the story of too many women, men, and children. If the author can find the inner strength to publicly share her story, then perhaps we the readers can stand with her and other survivors, so no one must Face the Storm alone. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3AcUgy0.

Escape From Appalachia by Mary Frances Barron

Above all else, this book shows how a resilient spirit — undervalued, abandoned, and betrayed — can be restored

Told in its just-released audiobook as well as traditional formats through the eyes of a witty, outgoing, and curious little girl, Francie beautifully weaves together personal narratives and historical information about the ever-present American tragedy known as Appalachia. She peels back layers of her early life while walking us through the patches where coal miners and their families once lived, the impact of surviving in a contaminated environment, and the everyday threat of pollution, addiction, toothlessness, chronic depression, and abuse. An area where drugs and alcohol numb the pain of reality.

Francie portrays the mindset and brokenness of the people and the hopelessness that can come from living in isolation and poverty. It’s a story that brings the reader to laughter and tears and showcases an irrepressible drive to escape the grip of Appalachia on its sons and daughters. Purchase at https://bit.ly/4elmG75.

Cycling for a Cause: A Cross-Country Adventure by Joe Matthews

Are you ready for a heartwarming adventure that reminds us of the goodness in the world?

Joe Matthews is a retired New York City firefighter whose life takes an unexpected turn when he undergoes bilateral knee replacement surgery. As Joe navigates the challenging road to recovery, he finds himself shaken by the turmoil of a horrific world event — the invasion of Ukraine by Russia in February 2022.

Fueled by a desire to make a difference, Joe goes on an inspiring journey: bicycling across America to raise funds for those affected by the crisis in Ukraine. From the highs of overcoming physical challenges to the lows of battling anxiety and insomnia, Joe's roller coaster ride captures the resilience of the human spirit. Through this journey, he discovers unexpected kindness in the generosity of strangers and the support of newfound friends.

All proceeds to be divided among six favorite charities. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3UJoEHf.

The Misconceived Conception of a Baby Named Jesus by Bill Burkland

A religious satire — a fast-paced comedic reimagining of the events surrounding the birth of Jesus, with sensibilities similar to The Book of Mormon and Monty Python's Life of Brian.

Mary and Joseph rendezvous in a secluded Nazarene garden where they get to know each other well — very well. Months later, when Mary's pious mother sees that her young unwed daughter is pregnant, she and a pompous High Priest devise a plan to characterize the pregnancy as divine, of God's seed. Mary refuses to go along with their plan, insisting Joseph is the true father. Joseph and Mary battle her parents for the fate of their newborn baby.

As news spreads through Bethlehem, unscrupulous shepherds, rakish Wise Men, an earnest but malodorous peasant, and an aging cat with a penchant for prophecy all try to determine whether the baby is truly the Son of God. Purchase at https://amzn.to/4fUphGl.

(NewsUSA) -  

Birth can be scary. Prior to the global pandemic in 2020, it was estimated that 10 to 15 percent of women in the United States had a fear of childbirth so strong that it impacted their daily functioning. That number rose to 62 percent during the pandemic.

That’s why childbirth psychology expert Samantha Vaive, Ph.D., published a new book, MIND-BODY, BIRTH, a research-based, easy-to-understand and inclusive guide designed to help pregnant women achieve their best birth. Birth doesn’t have to be something women suffer through just to get to the good part—birth can be the good part.

In this book, readers will learn how to move beyond the fear of childbirth, allowing them to have a joyful birth experience that they are excited about.

“This glorious, beautiful thing we have literally been doing since the dawn of humans was crushing people around me,” says Vaive. “Birth should not be devastating.”

MIND-BODY, BIRTH breaks down what actually makes childbirth painful (it’s not what people think) and offers strategies to reduce that pain. Readers will learn the barriers that get in the way of an awesome birth experience.

The book also explores traditional and non-traditional ways to enhance the birth journey and improve outcomes for women and their babies. The book guides readers through activities, and journaling prompts them to deepen their understanding while exploring the path to their best birth.

Vaive is founder of Sound Birthing LLC and creator of the Mind-Body, Birth approach. Her doctoral research explored improving the childbirth experience and birth outcomes. She is passionate about making anxiety-free childbirth accessible to everyone. She holds a master’s in social work from the University of Denver and a postgraduate certificate in sex therapy and sexual health education from the University of Michigan. Additionally, she has completed over 500 hours of Yoga teacher training and is a certified sound therapist. 

“This book will give you the tools you need to take control and birth better,” says Vaive.

As the book comes to an end, readers will use these activities to build their personal birth toolkit—a comprehensive resource that will guide them toward a joyful birth.

Whether this is a person’s first time giving birth or they are looking to improve upon past experiences, MIND-BODY, BIRTH equips them with the knowledge and confidence to feel prepared and excited about their upcoming birth.

“This book is here to support you,” says Vaive. “To help you have your best birth. Not to tell you how you should be.”

Learn more by visiting the author’s website at  www.sound-birthing.com.

(NewsUSA) - Fifteen years ago, when National School Choice Week began, the world of education looked very different. In some places, school choice options were slim, and many families wished there was more to explore as the festivities took place. Today, the school choice landscape is far more open, but with this growth comes complexity. This year from January 26 to February 1, the national celebration is more necessary than ever: families need help navigating a K-12 education system that is evolving rapidly.

The demand for school choice has surged in recent years. In the last 12 months, 6 in 10 parents considered new schools for their children, reflecting the growing awareness of school choice policies. Parents are talking about school choice more than ever and more likely to consider education options like microschooling, homeschooling, or private schools. No matter what type of school they choose - neighborhood public, charter, magnet, private, online, or micro - families increasingly believe that education is not one-size-fits-all.

Also, nearly half of Americans said, a few months ago, that they believe K-12 education is on the wrong track nationwide. Yet, paradoxically, many parents remain optimistic about their local schools. What this tells us is that education is very personal. Every parent wants to give their child the best possible future, no matter what type of schooling they need to succeed.

National School Choice Week will be the first step toward choosing a school for the fall for millions of parents across the country. Through more than 27,000 events from open houses to citywide school fairs, the Week offers a platform for families to reflect, connect, and plan. Across its 15-year history, National School Choice Week has hosted 236,746 events and engaged with more than 9 million parents, helping them explore options ranging from traditional public schools to public charter, public magnet, private, online, at-home, and nontraditional options. 

What I’ve learned from years of National School Choice Week celebrations is that families are eager for better options, but they often feel stymied by the barriers to choosing them. It is not enough to create education options; we have to ensure families can access them and understand how to make the best decision for their children. That is what makes National School Choice Week so powerful. It bridges the gap between awareness and action, giving parents the tools they need.  

What National School Choice Week reminds us each year is that education is deeply personal. Behind every statistic is a family making decisions that will shape a child’s future. This celebration isn’t just about celebrating options, it’s about making options work. 

Fifteen years ago, this celebration was just an idea. Today, it’s a national event that empowers millions of families to make decisions that shape futures. It’s a reminder that when families are equipped with the right tools, anything is possible for their children. 

Shelby Doyle is the vice president of public awareness at the National School Choice Awareness Foundation, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that hosts National School Choice Week each January and maintains the nation’s largest online portfolio of English- and Spanish-language school navigation resources. 

(NewsUSA) - Those who suffer from eye infections that threaten a person’s vision have a new treatment option that is noninvasive and counters the problem of antibiotic resistance, based on recent research and clinical work.

Many eye infections are caused by multi-drug-resistant strains of bacteria and other pathogens, and standard treatments are limited, according to investigators at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute of the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine in Florida.

VisiRose, a newly launched, privately-held clinical-stage biotechnology company affiliated with Provectus Biopharmaceuticals (OTCQB: PVCT), is collaborating with Bascom Palmer to commercialize a novel, noninvasive therapy for severe eye infections. The treatment, known as Rose Bengal Photodynamic Antimicrobial Therapy (RB-PDAT), combines a bioactive synthetic small molecule known as Rose Bengal Sodium with a light-based medical device to help manage eye infections caused by bacteria, fungi, and parasites.

“RB-PDAT represents a consequential solution for patients at risk of vision loss from severe infectious keratitis,” said Dominic Rodrigues, acting CEO of VisiRose. RB-PDAT treatment has been associated with rapid resolution of severe eye infections and improved vision outcomes for patients in clinical studies in the U.S., India, Brazil, and Mexico, according to the company.

“We believe Bascom Palmer’s innovative therapy combines infection-fighting capabilities with vision-preserving benefits, paving the way for a brighter future for those struggling with this challenging condition,” said Rodrigues, who also serves as vice chairman of the board of directors and president of Provectus.

Rose Bengal Sodium, the company’s flagship molecule, has demonstrated effectiveness against multi-drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, among other strains, in a laboratory setting. At the Ocular Microbiology and Immunology Group conference in 2023, Bascom Palmer researchers reported that 76% of the first 100 patients treated with RB-PDAT at Bascom Palmer, who had severe eye infections unresponsive to standard treatment,achieved successful vision outcomes, with an average time to resolution of just over 6 months.

In a case series published last year in the medical journal JAMA Ophthalmology of nine adults who experienced severe eye infections caused by contaminated artificial tears, RB-PDAT was effective as an addition to antibiotics and helped improve vision outcomes in two patients who received this new therapy, according to Bascom Palmer researchers: a man in his 40s who came to the emergency department with severe pain and decreased vision in his left eye; and a woman in her 80s with worsening redness and visual loss in her right eye.

“This innovative therapy leverages the power of the versatile rose bengal small molecule to fight infection and offers new hope for preserving vision," Rodrigues said.

RB-PDAT has shown promising results in treating severe eye infections in more than 500 individuals worldwide where standard therapies have failed, according to the company press release. Notably, patients in India and Brazil were treated much earlier with RB-PDAT, receiving the oculat treatment as first-line therapy. “VisiRose has the potential to help fill a critical treatment gap in global eye care, particularly in regions and populations severely impacted by antimicrobial resistance with limited access to medical solutions,” Ed Pershing added, who is chairman of VisiRose’s board of directors and also serves as CEO and chairman of Provectus’s board.

Visit www.visirose.com to learn more.

Image caption: Juan Carlos Navia, M.D. at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, delivering the VisiRose RB PDAT treatment in the clinic.

(NewsUSA) - Do you crave crispy, tasty tortilla chips, and want a snack that you and your family can feel good about? If so, then you'll be happy to hear about a new chip that is now available that is rich in plant-based protein but keeps the delicious flavor and texture of your favorite restaurant-style tortilla chips.

SimplyProtein, the same makers of your favorite SimplyProtein bars, makes it easy to enjoy your favorite snacks with the added benefit of protein and without sacrificing taste.

Most people know that eating protein helps the body build muscle strength and repair muscle cells after activity. But protein can also play a role in smarter snacking. In fact, protein digests more slowly compared to carbohydrates, and stimulates appetite hormones that tell your brain that you are full, helping you to eat less.

Adding more protein to your diet is easy, especially if it comes in the form of tasty snacks that you already enjoy. SimplyProtein has just introduced a line of Restaurant-Style Tortilla Chips that are gluten-free, vegan, and kosher, too.

“We believe we’ve cracked the code on indulgent-tasting, better-for-you tortilla chips,” notes Michael Lines, CEO of Wellness Natural Inc., parent company of SimplyProtein. “I’m really proud to have created a new protein-rich snack that tastes so great.”

The tortillas, which come in three flavors—Sea Salt, Hint of Lime, and Hint of Habanero—are made with a unique blend of corn, quality pea protein, and organic sunflower oil, plus other ingredients.

The combination of delicious flavors in a crunchy restaurant-style chip that also provides 7 grams of plant-based protein per 50-gram serving (14 chips) sets SimplyProtein Restaurant-Style Tortilla Chips apart as a superior choice for smart snacking.

Although the chips provide their own zesty flavor and protein power, they make a delicious nacho dish but also pair perfectly with dips and salsas for a winning combination to accompany any social gatherings you may host or attend, like movie nights, girls night in, Super Bowl, fall sports tailgate or other event.

Try your favorite dips, or explore something new, such as this zesty Cowboy Caviar.

Cowboy Caviar

Combine in large bowl:

One 14 oz can black beans, drained
One 14 oz can pinto beans, drained
One 14 oz can of sweet corn, drained
4 bell peppers, finely chopped
2  jalapenos, finely chopped
2 avocados, finely chopped
¾ cup red onion, finely chopped
1 cup black olives, chopped
6 oz crumbled Feta cheese

Dressing:

Combine in a small bowl and drizzle over Cowboy Caviar:

½ cup of olive oil
3 small limes, juiced
3 Tbsp white wine vinegar
3 Tbsp honey
1 Tbsp taco seasoning
salt + pepper to taste
 

Visit simplyprotein.com to learn more.

(NewsUSA) - Every 2 seconds, someone in the United States needs blood, and a single donation can save lives. Shortages in the nation’s blood supply can happen any time. Donors, especially those who donate regularly, keep our blood supply stable.

Blood transfusions are essential for some patients undergoing surgery, or who’ve had serious injuries or are dealing with certain medical conditions. While everyone is impacted when there are shortages of blood and blood products, people living in communities with higher numbers of patients with rare blood types or diseases are disproportionately affected.      

Take those with sickle cell disease (SCD), a condition that affects more than 100,000 people in the U.S., the majority of who are Black or of African ancestry. Many people with SCD need blood transfusions throughout their lives but often find it difficult to get the type they need. That’s why Black or African American blood donors are so vital, as 1 in 3 are a match for people with SCD.

While it may seem outdated to think of blood in terms of race – the practice of segregating donated blood by race was discontinued shortly after World War II – scientific studies have found that, to reduce the risk of transfusion complications, some people do require blood or blood products from donors with the same racial or ethnic background.

Most people can give blood, but only 3% of Americans donate each year. If you are in good health, at least 16 or 17 years old (depending on the state), and weigh at least 110 pounds, consider donating. A diverse blood supply ensures that every American has equitable access to blood and blood products. You can make a difference in your community by donating blood and by encouraging others to do the same.

Learn more by visiting the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute’s Blood Diseases & Disorders Education Program.

Callout:

Diversity in Blood Types

Most blood types fall into one of the four major groups: A, B, AB, O. Blood donations from all types are always needed. However, some people have rare blood types. Some of the rare blood types for African Americans include U- and Fy (a-b-). For these patients, the U.S. blood supply must be more diverse. The best blood type match for patients with rare blood types often comes from donors of the same race or similar ethnicity.