Attitude of previous blood donors toward blood donation during COVID-19

BACKGROUND: Access of blood donors to blood banks among several other factors affected rates of blood donation in many blood banks during COVID-19. Shortage of blood supply occurred to variable degrees in many countries, including Saudi Arabia. Rather than approaching new donors to donate during the time of crisis, past donors constitute a pool of potential donors that may be approached during these times. The objective of this study was to evaluate the attitude of donors who donated before the pandemic toward donating during the pandemic and to identify any specific donor characteristics that may affect their attitude. METHODS: All blood donors who donated during 2019 identified and systematically sampled. The selected donor sample was approached through phone calls and text messages from January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2019. Donors were asked to fill up a self-administered web-based survey that contained 30 questions about donor characteristics, variables related to COVID-19 infection and vaccine, and attitude toward blood donation. RESULTS: A total of 258 previous donors provided consent and completed the survey. The donor pool was male-dominated, and most donors were aware of their blood group. A significant difference in attitude was observed regarding blood donation and concern about COVID19 between college-educated and lesser educated individuals on certain aspects. Health-care workers displayed more awareness toward the donation and hospital policies. CONCLUSION: The academic level was associated with a positive attitude toward blood donation and COVID-19 infection, more awareness of the critical role of blood donation during the pandemic but also more concern about COVID-19 infection. Health-care workers are more aware about the entire condition. Thus, it is deemed essential that blood banks and hospitals design ways to educate and encourage the donors toward blood donation during the pandemic.