Publication:

A study on knowledge, attitude and practice on blood donation among medical students in a tertiary care teaching hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Background Role of youngsters in voluntary blood donation is crucial to meet the demand of safe blood. Therefore understanding the various factors contributing to knowledge, attitude and practice of voluntary blood donation (VBD) among youngsters is important. The objective of this study was to assess the level of knowledge, attitude and practice regarding blood donation among the health care medical students.

Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 students in second MBBS in a tertiary care teaching Hospital in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, using a structured survey questionnaire.

Results The present study shows majority of the medical students have very good knowledge and attitude towards blood donation. Compared to knowledge and attitude, the practice is good and 66% of responses were above average. Majority of the students have an intention to donate blood and 46% of the students have donated blood. Most of the students have positive attitude towards blood donation, even the reason for non-donation is just not getting opportunity for donation. The non-donors showed positive attitude by expressing their willingness to donate blood if they were asked to donate blood.

Conclusions The present study shows second MBBS students participated in the study has adequate knowledge and attitude. The practice of blood donation is also good and further can be improved by educational programmes.