A Survey on the Preexisting Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Blood Donation among Medical Students at Entry Level: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Background and Objective: In India, there is a huge gap between blood demand and supply of blood. Young people form blood donors for the future as they are full of idealism and enthusiasm. Targeting medical students at the entry level itself is beneficial as they can be included in the donor pool early. Hence, we planned this survey to understand knowledge, attitude, and practice of blood donation among them. Methods: Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. A briefing about the study was given to students, followed by 15 min to complete the questionnaire. A short awareness session was also conducted. A pre- and post-session willingness for blood donation was also taken. Results: The median age range was 19.36 ± 1.15 years with more males than females. There was a significant difference between knowledge among 1st and 2nd year students; however, attitude and practice showed no difference. Females showed significantly higher knowledge and better attitudes but significantly low practice than males. Significant reasons for blood donation among donors were to help others, even the unknown at the time of need and health benefits for blood donors. The most common reason for nondonation cited by nondonors was fear of weakness/anemia; however, it was not statistically significant. Willingness for donation improved from 83.4% to 93% after the awareness session. Conclusion: The participants had a good amount of knowledge and favorable attitude toward blood donation, but the practice of blood donation was less, especially among females. Improved willingness to donate blood following awareness sessions suggests that conducting regular educational and motivational activities will be helpful.

Keywords

• blood donors
• entry level
• knowledge
• attitude and practice
• medical
• voluntary blood donation