Determinants of Voluntary Blood Donation among Eligible Donors in San Carlos City, Pangasinan: Basis for A Community-Based Health Strategy

Rhoda B. Agbuya, RMT¹, Ma. Christina B. Ortega, PhD.²
rhodaagbuya@gmail.com¹, christinaortega20@gmail.com²
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation Inc., San Carlos City, Pangasinan, Philippines^1-2

DOI: https://doi.org/10.54476/ioer-imrj/805705

ABSTRACT

Ensuring a stable and safe blood supply requires sustained voluntary blood donation; however, maintaining consistent donor participation remains a challenge in many communities. This study examined the socio-demographic characteristics of eligible donors in San Carlos City, Pangasinan, and assessed their levels of knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward voluntary blood donation. It also determined the relationships between selected socio-demographic variables and KAP. Grounded in the Health Belief Model, Theory of Planned Behavior, and Social Cognitive Theory, the study highlights the influence of individual beliefs, social norms, and self-efficacy in shaping blood donation behaviors. A quantitative descriptive–correlational research design was employed. A total of 384 eligible donors were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire developed from related literature. Descriptive statistics, weighted means, and Pearson correlation analysis were used to analyze the data. Results showed that most respondents were aged 18–24 years (60.7%), female (57.3%), single (73.7%), students (56.3%), and Roman Catholic (61.5%). The overall level of knowledge about voluntary blood donation was very high (AWM = 4.59), while attitudes were generally positive (AWM = 3.89). However, donation practices were only moderate (AWM = 3.96), indicating that consistent and regular donation remains less frequent among respondents. Statistical analysis further revealed significant relationships between selected socio-demographic variables and KAP (p < 0.05). The findings indicate that although eligible donors demonstrate strong knowledge and favorable attitudes toward blood donation, these do not always translate into sustained donation practices. Strengthening community-based interventions that enhance self-efficacy, reduce perceived barriers, and promote supportive social influences is recommended to encourage regular voluntary blood donation.

Keywords: Public Health; Voluntary Blood Donation; Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP); Descriptive–Correlational Study; Philippines

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