Red Cross: Region's blood supply critical

The well-being of patients in 19 northeast Ohio counties, including Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana, is in jeopardy because of low blood supplies, according to American Red Cross officials.
The American Red Cross Northern Ohio Blood Services Region is unable to supply the needs of about 50 local hospitals in a timely manner because of low blood supplies.
The local blood supply as of this morning was lower than a one-day supply of five blood types. There is less than a one-day supply of platelets, a component of blood used to treat cancer patients, for example, officials said.
The Red Cross urged all who are eligible to donate blood as soon as possible. To donate, a person must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, be in general good health and present a valid photo ID.
For information on blood drive locations and times, call (800) 448-3543 or visit www.northernohio.redcross.org.