Voluntary Blood Donors and Factors Associated with Blood Donation in Pakistan Current Status and Way Forward

Abstract

Blood donation is a vital component of healthcare systems worldwide, essential for various medical procedures including surgeries, trauma care, obstetric interventions, and the management of blood disorders. A safe and efficient vein-to-vein transfusion process is crucial for patient survival. Blood donors are typically classified into three categories: autologous, replacement, and voluntary, with voluntary unpaid donors being considered the safest due to their lower risk of transfusion-transmitted infections such as HIV and hepatitis B, C and D. In Pakistan, where the burden of infectious diseases remains high and healthcare resources are limited, there is an urgent need to strengthen the voluntary blood donation system. The objective of this study is to explore the current status of voluntary blood donation in Pakistan, examine the key factors associated with donation behaviors, and propose practical strategies to promote regular, voluntary, unpaid blood donation. A descriptive cross-sectional design was used, involving structured questionnaires distributed among a diverse sample across different regions of Pakistan, targeting various age groups, genders, and educational backgrounds. Data analysis revealed that a significant portion of the population relies on replacement donation, with only a minority participating in voluntary donations. Major barriers included lack of awareness, fear of side effects, cultural myths, and inadequate access to donation centers. However, respondents exposed to health education campaigns or engaged in academic institutions were more likely to express willingness to donate regularly. The study concludes that increasing voluntary blood donation in Pakistan requires multifaceted efforts including awareness campaigns, youth-targeted interventions, donor recognition programs, and improved accessibility to donation services. Encouraging young people—who constitute over half of the population—to become regular voluntary donors can not only ensure a safer and more sustainable blood supply but also reduce the national healthcare burden and transmission of infectious diseases.