Assessment of Knowledge and Attitude towards Blood Donation among Blood Donors in Jordan

Abstract

AbstractObjectivesThis study will identify blood donor characteristics in Jordan. The study aims to investigate the extent of awareness and knowledge regarding blood donation among blood donors and to explore their attitudes towards blood donation in general. It also highlights various motivational factors and obstacles which impact the decision to donate blood among Jordanian donors.BackgroundRecruitment of low risk blood donors can be challenging. Efforts should be made to increase the level of awareness and positive attitude toward blood donation. An essential step to achieve this is obtaining comprehensive data about the current situation of awareness, knowledge, and attitudes of the population towards blood donation.Methods/MaterialsThe present study was conducted at two blood donation centers in Amman, Jordan, during 2021. A total of 535 whole blood donors were included. Data regarding their demographic characteristics, blood donation history as well as their knowledge and attitudes regarding blood donation was collected by a questionnaire.ResultsFour hundred ninety participants (91.6%) were males while 45 only (8.4%) were females. One hundred forty subjects (19.4%) were first time donors while 431 subjects (80.6%) had previous donations. The participants’ median score in the knowledge section was 19.0 points (range 5-25 points). There was no significant correlation between participants’ overall attitude score and their corresponding demographic characteristics or their overall knowledge score.ConclusionMeasures to improve knowledge and attitude toward blood donation should be implemented in order to meet the increasing demand for blood and blood components. Targeted campaigns, correction of some misconceptions, and using different motivations are suggested.