Perceived Knowledge, Motivating Factors, and Deterring Factors of Voluntary Blood Donation Practices Among Medical Students
Rodolfo Marlon A. Medino III, Tiffany Siangco, Jessica Alayne B. Gular, Zachary Garret D. Bajarias, Rob Joseph C. Minglana, Guibaek Nam, Amor Dale G. Ocmeja, Frederick F. Sarmen Jr., Gianna Felomina D. Tremedal, Ma. Kiara Chloe L. Ybañez, Jeraldine A. Balongkit
Cebu Doctors’ University College of Medicine
Blood donation is a life-saving act that is crucial for the survival of patients requiring transfusion. However, persistent blood shortages remain a pressing public health concern despite ongoing policies and recruitment initiatives, with the youth, particularly medical students, underutilized as potential blood donors. This study examined the factors associated with blood donation practices by assessing perceived knowledge, motivations, and barriers to inform youth-centered blood donation promotion strategies in addressing critical blood shortages. A descriptive correlational study was conducted using proportionate stratified random sampling among 200 students in a medical school in Cebu, Philippines. Data collection used a modified questionnaire on blood donation practices, perceived knowledge (α = 0.83), deterring factors (α = 0.84), and motivating factors (α = 0.93). Data were analyzed using Chi-square and Cramer’s V tests with statistical significance at p < 0.05. Despite the majority having high perceived knowledge of pre-donation health screening, 67.5% had never donated blood. Only 32.5% donated, mainly when an urgent need arises in friends or relatives. Motivation levels were generally low to moderate, with minimal deterrence, particularly lack of time. Perceived knowledge showed a weak but statistically significant association with donation behavior, while no significant associations between donation behavior and motivation and deterrence factors. While medical students demonstrate strong health literacy, this does not translate into regular blood donation behavior. Highlighting time-related barriers and promoting emotional connection to blood donation through flexible, personalized strategies that may improve youth participation in voluntary blood donation programs.
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