Transfusion-Transmissible HIV Infection Risk in Kumba, Cameroon: A Qualitative Research

Abstract

Transfusion-transmissible HIV remains a challenge especially where transfusion of unsafe blood is a constant practice. The study's purpose was to identify keys to unsafe blood transfusion that pose HIV transmission risk in Kumba, Cameroon. A qualitative research design was adopted, using semi-structured in-depth interviews, conducted with ten laboratory technicians working in Kumba, Cameroon, to deliberate on transfusion-transmissible HIV infection risk in their various places of work. The participants in this study perceived that there is transfusion-transmissible HIV risk in Kumba, Cameroon. The lack of safe blood means that anyone requiring blood in Kumba is at risk of transfusion-transmissible HIV infection. The establishment of blood banks in Kumba hospitals, the use of voluntary non-remunerated blood donors and the use of sensitive test kits that can detect HIV infections in the window period could improve on the quality and safety of blood donated to patients in Kumba, Cameroon.