Louisville, Kentucky, January 15, 2026
The Kentucky Blood Center in Louisville has expanded its blood donation eligibility to include many cancer survivors, allowing them to donate blood one year after completing treatment for certain cancers. This move aims to bolster the state’s blood supply amidst ongoing challenges. While organ cancer and melanoma survivors can now donate, those with blood-affecting cancers remain ineligible. The Kentucky Blood Center continues to operate as a critical resource for local hospitals, relying on volunteer donors for various medical needs.
Louisville, Kentucky: Kentucky Blood Center Expands Donation Eligibility for Cancer Survivors
Louisville, Kentucky – The Kentucky Blood Center (KBC) has updated its blood donation eligibility criteria, now allowing many cancer survivors to donate blood one year after completing treatment for certain cancers, including organ cancers and melanoma. This change aims to increase the donor pool and address ongoing blood supply challenges in the state.
Expanded Eligibility Criteria
Previously, cancer survivors faced extended waiting periods before being eligible to donate blood. Under the new guidelines, individuals who have completed treatment for specific cancers, such as organ cancers and melanoma, may now donate blood one year after their treatment ends. This adjustment is based on medical research and federal guidance indicating that blood donation remains safe for these individuals. However, patients who have had cancers affecting the blood, bone marrow, or lymphatic system are still ineligible to donate. Additionally, some cancer medications may prevent donation, and standard health requirements continue to apply.
Addressing Blood Supply Needs
The expansion of donor eligibility is part of KBC’s efforts to bolster the blood supply in Kentucky. Blood donations are crucial for various medical treatments, including surgeries, cancer therapies, and trauma care. By increasing the number of eligible donors, KBC aims to ensure a steady and sufficient blood supply for patients across the state.
Background on Kentucky Blood Center
Established in 1968, the Kentucky Blood Center is a community-based nonprofit organization that provides lifesaving blood products to Kentucky hospitals. As the largest FDA-licensed nonprofit blood bank in the Commonwealth, KBC relies on volunteer blood donors to meet the daily needs of patients in over 70 hospitals statewide. The center operates multiple donor centers and conducts numerous mobile blood drives to facilitate convenient donation opportunities for the community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What types of cancer survivors are now eligible to donate blood?
Individuals who have completed treatment for certain cancers, including organ cancers and melanoma, may now donate blood one year after their treatment ends.
Are there any cancers that still prevent blood donation?
Yes, patients who have had cancers affecting the blood, bone marrow, or lymphatic system are still ineligible to donate blood.
How does this change impact the blood supply in Kentucky?
By expanding the donor pool to include more cancer survivors, the Kentucky Blood Center aims to address ongoing blood supply challenges and ensure a steady and sufficient blood supply for patients across the state.
How can I find out if I’m eligible to donate blood?
For specific questions regarding your eligibility to donate blood based on your health history, contact the Kentucky Blood Center directly or visit their official website for more information.
Key Features of the Kentucky Blood Center’s Recent Update
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Expanded Eligibility | Cancer survivors who have completed treatment for certain cancers, including organ cancers and melanoma, may now donate blood one year after treatment ends. |
| Increased Donor Pool | The change aims to address ongoing blood supply challenges by allowing more individuals to donate blood. |
| Ongoing Restrictions | Patients with cancers affecting the blood, bone marrow, or lymphatic system remain ineligible to donate blood. |
| Standard Health Requirements | All standard health requirements for blood donation continue to apply, regardless of cancer history. |
| Background | The Kentucky Blood Center is a community-based nonprofit organization providing lifesaving blood products to Kentucky hospitals since 1968. |
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