Myths and Misconceptions Preventing College Going Students from Voluntary Blood Donation

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Blood services are facing a shortage of blood all over the world. Demand for blood is rising day by day and current blood donation is insufficient to meet the demand. This study was planned to assess the myths of college-going students regarding blood donation, address their misconceptions, and raise awareness among college students on the importance of blood donation. Methods: The study population comprised 1000 students above the age of 18 years who qualify for blood donation after assessment of suitability to donate blood as per the blood donor questionnaire and consent form of the department. Results: Myths and misconceptions were more prevalent among nonblood donor students. The most common reason for not donating blood, as stated by nonblood donor students, was fear of needle pain in 137 (27.4%), followed by being not fit to donate in 134 (26.8%) and the fear of becoming weak in 95 (19%). Conclusion: The most common reason comes out to be related to health of the individual donor; almost one in two college-going students (45.8%) fear that either they are not fit enough to donate blood (26.8%) or that they will become weak (19%) after blood donation.