Factors influencing unrelated stem cell donation a mixed-methods integrated systematic review

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Transplantation immunology
• Public health

Background:

• Global imbalance between demand for and availability of stem cell donors.
• Critical need to understand factors influencing unrelated stem cell donation (USCD) in adults.
• Essential to inform interventions for increasing donor participation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively understand facilitators and barriers of unrelated stem cell donation (USCD) in adults.
• To synthesize qualitative and quantitative evidence on USCD intention and behavior.
• To identify key factors for developing effective behavior change interventions.

Main Methods:

• Systematic mixed-methods review following Joanna Briggs Institute methodology.
• Searched Embase, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, and CINAHL databases (1980-February 2021).
• Data synthesis incorporated the COM-B model.

Main Results:

• Donation knowledge positively influenced donation behaviors; lack of knowledge was a barrier.
• Facilitators included perceived convenience, social influences, religious beliefs, and social norms.
• Altruism and sense of duty were primary motives; Communication/Marketing and Service Provision are key policy areas for intervention.

Conclusions:

• Interventions should prioritize targeted education on unrelated stem cell donation.
• Recruitment campaigns should highlight the life-saving impact of donation.
• Addressing identified barriers and leveraging facilitators can improve donor availability.