Scientific comment on health-related quality of life among blood donors with hepatitis B and hepatitis C: longitudinal study before and after diagnosis?

Abstract

The blood donation process is much more complex than is generally imagined and does not end with the departure of the donor from the donation center; the process transcends far beyond that. Without being aware of the fact, the donor may depart with a memory that the experience was or was not satisfactory which may last for several years after and we cannot forget that a positive donation experience has been recognized as the major determinant of donor return behavior. Accordingly, donors should be managed in a way that ensures high standards of care and assures them of the concern of the blood transfusion staff for their health and well-being. The donation experience should always be pleasurable for several reasons: not only is the act one of altruism, which always brings a sense of satisfaction, but by donating the individual becomes an active member of the community in which he or she is inserted, enabling them to participate, at least indirectly, in promoting the health of the community.