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Knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding blood donation among the Saudi population
Maqbool Alam1, Bourhan El Din Masalmeh
1Department of Pathology, Armed Forces Hospital, Sharourah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. maqboolalam448@hotmail.com
Saudi Medical Journal
|March 30, 2004
Summary
Misconceptions about blood donation are prevalent in Saudi Arabia. Educational campaigns, especially via electronic media, are needed to boost voluntary non-remunerated blood donation rates.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Medical Education
- Hematology
Background:
- Blood donation is crucial for healthcare systems.
- Understanding public knowledge, attitudes, and practices is vital for effective donor recruitment.
- Saudi Arabia faces challenges in maintaining an adequate blood supply.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding blood donation in the Saudi population.
- To inform strategies for motivating and recruiting voluntary non-remunerated blood donors.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study conducted at Armed Forces Hospital, Sharourah, Saudi Arabia.
- 500 adult males interviewed using an Arabic questionnaire.
- Data collected on demographics, knowledge, and reasons for donation/non-donation.
Main Results:
- 58.2% were blood donors; 41.8% were non-donors.
- Significant misconceptions noted: 94.2% believed age >45 prevents donation.
- Many non-donors cited lack of approach (42.6%) or perceived unfitness (38.3%) as reasons.
Conclusions:
- The Saudi population holds misconceptions about blood donation.
- Targeted education and motivation are necessary.
- Electronic media can be an effective channel for disseminating information.