Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Blood Donation among Healthcare Workers and Medical Students in Chennai - A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Blood donation is a critical life-saving process, and healthcare workers and medical students are often prime candidates for voluntary donation due to their knowledge and proximity to medical practices. However, there is often a gap between their knowledge, attitudes, and actual donation practices. Understanding these factors in detail could inform targeted interventions to increase donation rates. Objective: This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding blood donation among healthcare workers and medical students in Chennai, India, and to identify factors influencing donation behavior. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 108 healthcare workers and medical students in Chennai. Participants completed a structured questionnaire assessing their knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to blood donation. Statistical analysis was performed to calculate odds ratios, adjusted odds ratios, and p-values for sociodemographic factors and their association with blood donation behavior. Results: Of the 108 participants, 84.3% had good knowledge of blood donation, 88% had a positive attitude, but only 60.2% had ever donated blood, and 23.1% were regular donors. Knowledge of donation eligibility criteria and positive attitudes were significantly associated with higher odds of donation (AOR: 2.08, p = 0.04 and AOR: 3.12, p = 0.02, respectively). Barriers such as fear of adverse effects (44.4%) and time constraints (29.6%) were commonly reported. Conclusion: Despite high levels of knowledge and positive attitudes, actual blood donation practices among healthcare workers and medical students in Chennai are low. Addressing misconceptions and logistical barriers could improve donation rates. This study underscores the need for enhanced educational and motivational strategies to bridge the gap between willingness and actual donation.