Factors Affecting Voluntary Blood Donations among Adults in Metro Manila, Philippines, as a Basis for Policy Improvement on Donor Recruitment

Abstract

Background. Blood donation practice in the Philippines is low despite numerous efforts to recruit potential donors and increase blood supply.

Objectives. This study aimed to explore the sociodemographic profile of potential donors and their perceived level of knowledge, motivators, and hindrances on blood donation practice to recommend improvements in policies and strategies regarding blood donation recruitment.

Methods. A descriptive study design was utilized to attain the objectives of the study. A piloted questionnaire was floated through various social media platforms to gather data. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson's product-moment correlation.

Results. We included 260 Metro Manila residents, 18 to 65 years old and without conditions that merited permanent deferral in blood donation. Overall, the respondents had an adequate perceived level of knowledge (x? = 3.13, SD = 0.70) on blood donation but the lowest level of knowledge on the interval between successive blood donations (x? = 2.71, SD = 1.04). Furthermore, respondents were considerably motivated to donate blood (x? = 2.67, SD = 0.42) mainly due to relatives and friends requiring blood (x? = 3.73, SD = 0.60), and have minimal discernment of being discouraged from blood donation (x? = 2.09, SD = 0.48) mainly due to time constraints (x? = 3.23, SD = 0.78). Moreover, there is a significant but low inverse correlation (r = -0.151, p = 0.015) between age and motivation, suggesting younger individuals have more motivation to donate blood. Thus, policies and strategies that target young donors are highly suggested.

Conclusion. Poor blood donation practices in the Philippines suggest recalibration of policies and strategies by targeting young individuals and showcasing altruism to improve donor recruitment. Moreover, it is
recommended to strategically establish blood service facilities in accessible areas with flexible operating
hours to accommodate potential donors with hectic schedules.