Factors Impacting Knowledge of Voluntary Blood Donation among Adult Residents of Mwanakwerekwe Ward in Zanzibar, Tanzania: Insights from a Community Survey

Abstract

Background and study aim: Insufficient blood donation in sub-Saharan Africa, including Tanzania, poses a significant public health challenge. Blood and its components provide vital life-saving support and treatment to patients. In Zanzibar, healthcare facilities face a blood shortage, with a collection of only about 10,000 units annually compared to the critical need of 18,000 units. This study intended to identify factors that affect the community’s knowledge about voluntary blood donation in Mwanakwerekwe ward, Zanzibar, to increase motivation for donation. Patients and Methods: A quantitative analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in Mwanakwerekwe Ward, Zanzibar, between March 20 and June 19, 2023, and included 100 adult male and female community members. The data collected was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 26. Frequencies, percentages, and P-values for significant association were used. Results: The study revealed that the average knowledge of the study participants regarding voluntary blood donation was 46%, which is inadequate. About 48% of all participants had adequate knowledge, and 52% had inadequate knowledge. Among the independent variables examined, only two factors (participants' level of education and occupation) showed a significant correlation with the level of knowledge, each exhibiting a P-value (P< 0.05). Conclusion: The results of this research indicated inadequate knowledge of voluntary blood donation within the community of Mwanakwerekwe ward, thus emphasizing the need to strengthen programs to increase awareness among its members.