Global Journal of Transfusion Medicine (Jan 2023)
Contributions of voluntary blood donor organizations to voluntary blood donation
Abstract
Background and Objectives: An ideal model for the foundation of a safe blood supply is a committed group of healthy, altruistic voluntary blood donors (VBDs) recruited by a well-organized, dynamic VBD organization (VBDO). We address the data deficiency on VBDOs in strengthening the voluntary blood donation program. The aims of the study are to assess the part played by VBDO in strengthening VBDs, regular repeat blood donor (RRBD), and regular repeat VBD (RRVBD), classifying the VBDOs on their functional realm, and analyzing the variables affecting blood donations based on their association with VBDOs. Methods: This was a cross-sectional observational study from September 2019 to December 2019. All donors provided a questionnaire in “Google Forms” with a consent form through social media. Modified Kuppuswamy score 2019 was used to classify donors based on occupation, education, and socioeconomic classification (SEC). Pearson's Chi-square test was used for statistical analysis. Results: Eight hundred and thirty-four responses were obtained from 960 donors. 78.7% responses belonged to VBDs, 62.6% belonged to donors not associated with VBDOs and there was no statistically sifnificant difference between VBDs and replacement donors based on their association with VBDOs. 46.9% and 55.6% of VBDO donors are RRBD and vice versa, respectively, showing statistical significance. Majority of RRVBDs, i.e., 97 (52.2%), belong to VBDO showing statistical significance. Site of donation and gender showed statistical significance unlike age, education, occupation, and SEC. 61.25% of VBDO donors were associated with nongovernmental organizations. Conclusions: VBDOs contribute more toward the regularity of donation rather than donating blood voluntarily and retaining blood donors.
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