Knowledge and Attitudes towards Blood Donation among Students of the Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences at King Abdulaziz University

Objective: To look at current knowledge and attitude about blood donation and how much it is impacted by their demographic data, history of donation and field or level of study to help raising future awareness about blood donation. Methodology: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted between November 2017 and July 2018. Participants (350 FAMS students) were randomly selected and completed electronic self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire comprised demographic data, blood donation related knowledge, positive and negative attitude and past donation experience. Analysis of data regards history of donation, knowledge and attitude in relation to sociodemographic, field of study and level of study was then completed. Results: Almost 27% of the students donated blood previously. They were mostly male from MLT department and fourth year. Our results show good knowledge regards blood donation in FAMS students. Student's attitude reflected how much they believe in the impact of awareness campaign, blood transfusion application and availability of blood centres that facilitate connection between donors and recipient, would motivate the community more than having a gift or money in return for donation. Finally, the fear of needles may be the main reason that demotivated the students' from blood donation. Conclusion: Addressing the negative attitude that our students pointed to such misconceptions regards blood donation and implementing the positive attitude such utilization of blood transfusion applications must be the focus for future campaign that targets the particular group of the community to become regular voluntary donor.