Evaluation of Factors affecting voluntary blood donation in South-South Nigeria: Focus on Akwa Ibom State

Background: The sudden increase in demand for blood transfusion globally without the corresponding increase in voluntary blood supply (donation) has become a serious health problem. Countries across the world are facing serious problem of blood scarcity. Therefore this study was carried out to evaluate the socio- cultural factors affecting voluntary blood donation in Akwa Ibom State. Methods: A survey research design was adopted for the study and was carried out from January to May 2017. Three hundred respondents were purposely selected for the study from the three Senatorial districts using simple random techniques. Data were collected, collated and analyzed into frequencies and percentages and were also presented in tables. Results: The findings of the study revealed that majority (91.5%) people have good knowledge of voluntary blood donation due to the level of awareness and also view the exercise as important even without reward (remuneration) from recipients despite the influence of some socio-cultural factors such as culture, religion among others. Conclusion: It was therefore concluded that socio-cultural barriers to voluntary blood donation still exist, thereby giving room for misconception. Therefore, there should be intensified health education using various methods including health workers, print media and community leaders on the benefit of voluntary blood donation. This will help to correct some misconceptions on blood donation as there are people who still believe in the dictates of their religious and cultural practices as it relates to blood donation and its attendant health implication.