Blood Donation

J prev med hyg 2011; 52: 21-25

Original article

Community survey on blood donation practices

in a northern state of Nigeria

A.G. SALAUDEEN, O.I. MUSA, A.O. AWOYEMI, A.O. BOLARINWA*, A.O. ADEGBOYE**, S.O. SAMUEL***

Dept. of Epidemiology & Community Health, University of Ilorin, PMB 1515 Ilorin, Nigeria; * Dept. of Epid. & Community Health,

University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, P.M.B. 1459, Ilorin, Nigeria; ** Dept. of Paediatrics & Child Health, University of Ilorin, PMB

1515 Ilorin, Nigeria; *** Dept. of Medical Microbiology, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, P.M.B 123 Edo State, Nigeria

Key words

Blood donation • Blood donors • Blood donation practices • Voluntary blood

Summary

Introduction. Volunteer blood donors account for less than half of

the blood supply in developing countries; and few countries have

mobilized efforts to encourage voluntary blood donation (VBD). The

objective of this study was to determine the knowledge and blood

donation practices among adults in a state in Northern Nigeria.

Methods. Descriptive cross sectional study using multistage sampling technique was carried out among 936 respondents. Semi

structured interviewer administered questionnaire was used to

generate relevant data and information from the respondents. Data

entry and analysis was done using EPI-info software package.

Results. The knowledge of the respondents on blood donation

was low. Less than half 432 (46.2%) knew some indications for

blood transfusion. Two hundred and twelve (22.6%) respondents had donated blood in the past but only 1% of these were

VBD while 95% were donations based on blood needs by family

members, relations and friends. Few respondents 112 (12%) had

received blood transfusion in the past, and the main source of

blood transfused was paid commercial donors 50 (44.6%). The

fear of HIV screening was a major hindrance and limitation to

voluntary blood donation among respondents.

Conclusion. The gaps in knowledge &...