FACTORS AFFECTING VOLUNTARY BLOOD DONATION AMONG COMMUNITY MEMBERS AGED (19-45) YEARS IN BBIINA ZONE A, KAMPALA DISTRICT. ACROSS SECTIONAL STUDY.

Abstract

Background.

Globally, 10.7 million blood donations are registered from unpaid donors though it is still low, responsible for blood scarcity leading to death of patients and pregnant mothers. This study was to assess the factors affecting voluntary blood donation among community members aged 19 to 45 years in Bbiina Zone A, Kampala district

Methodology.

A sectional descriptive study design utilizing a quantitative data collection method was used among 70 community members aged 19 to 45 years who were randomly sampled. Data was collected using a pretested questionnaire analysed using Microsoft Office and presented as frequency tables, graphs, and pie charts.

Results.

Most of the respondents 34(48.6%) were aged between 25-30 years, 40 (57.1%) of the respondents had a secondary education level and 30(42.9%) of the respondents were Catholics. 68(97%) of the participants were aware of voluntary blood donation, 58(83%) knew its side effects, 44(62.9%) reported that their culture allowed them to donate blood, 67(93%) said they easily accessed blood donation centres and 38(54%) did not get support from their family members regarding blood donation.

Conclusion.

Respondents reported fears about voluntary blood donation side effects, fears about the activity, and lack of support from families acted as hindrances to voluntary blood donation.

Recommendations.

Relevant bodies should prioritize community sensitization about voluntary blood donation, ensure the availability and accessibility of blood donation services and centres, and involve local leaders in voluntary blood donation activity.