Factors influencing candidate blood donors' deferral, retention and blood safety in Tanzania: A prospective cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background and objectives: Several Tanzanian regions fall short of annual whole blood donation targets. Understanding what motivates first-time and repeat donors, and whether certain recruitment and retention strategies may affect blood safety, is essential to improving retention and ensuring a safe blood supply. This study aimed to identify variables associated with pre-donation deferral, donor retention and transfusion-transmitted infection (TTI) prevalence in Tanzanian (candidate) blood donors.

Materials and methods: Between February and April 2023, 1471 (candidate) donors were surveyed at 43 mobile blood collections across 5 Tanzanian regions to collect data on socio-demographics, motivations, incentives received after donation and recruitment methods used. Multivariable logistic regression modelling was performed on a dataset of 675 participants to identify predictors of pre-donation deferral, retention and TTI rates.

Results: Pre-donation deferral was more likely among females, first-time donors, those recruited via multiple methods and those attending collections at public places (all p < 0.05). Donor retention was positively associated with increasing age, having received an incentive and donating at Nyarugusu refugee camp (all p < 0.05). Donors mainly motivated by receiving test results had significantly higher TTI rates than those wanting to save lives. TTI rates were lower in those donating at schools/universities and Nyarugusu compared to public places.

Conclusion: This study revealed multiple important predictors of pre-donation deferral, retention and TTI rates in Tanzanian (candidate) blood donors. Further research is needed to identify the most effective donor recruitment and retention strategies and to assess the value of targeting specific populations for a more stable blood supply in Tanzania.