The National Health Service (NHS) is urgently calling for more blood donors, especially those of Black heritage, to address a growing shortage of blood needed to treat patients with sickle cell disease. Health professionals estimate that an additional 16,000 volunteers are needed to meet the current demand. According to NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT), the health service is currently only able to provide about half the blood required for patients undergoing regular transfusions to manage the condition. Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder that affects the shape of red blood cells, causing them to become rigid and crescent-shaped, which can block blood flow. It is most common in people of African or Caribbean descent. Symptoms include severe pain, fatigue, and swelling in the hands and feet. Treatment typically involves medication and regular blood transfusions. All newborns in England are tested for the condition through a simple heel-prick test given around five days after birth. This appeal comes as the NHS marks the 20th anniversary of the national rollout of newborn screening for sickle cell disease. The screening program has improved early diagnosis and long-term care for those living with the condition. Currently, more than 19,000 people in England are living with sickle cell disease, but the NHS is only able to supply about 50% of the blood these patients need for regular transfusions. To meet the demand, NHSBT estimates that at least 16,000 new donors of Black heritage are needed to expand the existing donor pool by 75%. Black donors are especially important because they are more likely to have a blood type that matches those with sickle cell disease. Specifically, they are ten times more likely than white individuals to have the Ro blood subtype, which is crucial for effective treatment. Gerry Gogarty, director of blood supply at NHSBT, said that while there has been a significant increase in the number of Black donors over the past decade, more are needed to keep up with the growing demand for blood. Yann-Elie Asket, a 22-year-old student from London, registered to donate blood after losing his cousin to the condition. He emphasized the importance of blood donation as a way to help others live longer, healthier lives. Iyamide Thomas from the Sickle Cell Society also highlighted the progress made in treatment and the importance of a reliable blood supply to support these advancements. She encouraged more people of Black heritage to become regular donors to help those living with the condition lead better lives.