Barriers to Blood Donation: Identifying Deterrents in a Tertiary Care Setting

Background: Blood donation rates in tertiary care settings often fall short of meeting demand, necessitated by various barriers perceived by potential donors. Methods: A cross-sectional survey involving 908 participants was conducted to identify barriers to blood donation. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and logistic regression, were utilized to evaluate the association between demographic characteristics and perceived barriers. Results: The study identified lack of awareness (50%), misconceptions about eligibility (37.4%), logistical issues (40%), and fear of needles (19.9%) as significant barriers to blood donation. Demographic factors significantly influenced the perception of these barriers, with tailored interventions proposed to mitigate their impact. Conclusion: Addressing the identified barriers through targeted educational campaigns and logistical improvements is critical for enhancing blood donation rates. Future strategies should focus on reducing misconceptions, improving awareness, and making donation more accessible.