Voluntary blood donation practice and associated factors in Shashemene town, Oromia region, Southern Ethiopia: A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Global Voluntary blood donation rates are critically low, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, where many countries collect fewer than 5 donations per 1,000 population compared to over 50 in high-income nations. In Ethiopia, only about 1% of eligible individuals donate blood annually which is far below the WHO’s 3% target—and the reasons behind this shortfall remain unclear despite ongoing national efforts. The primary aim of the current study was to assess the prevalence of voluntary blood donation and identify the associated factors among adults aged 18–65 in Shashemene town, Oromia Region, Southern Ethiopia.

Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Shashemene town, Southern Ethiopia, from May 22 to June 22, 2025, among adults aged 18–65 years. Using multi-stage sampling, eight kebeles were selected, and 742 individuals were systematically sampled. Data were collected via Kobo Toolbox and analyzed with SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were performed, with model building through stepwise backward elimination and fitness checked using the Hosmer–Lemeshow test. Statistical significance was set at p < .05 with 95% confidence intervals, and results were reported as AOR.

Result: A total of 742 participants involved in the study yielding the response rate 100%. The prevalence of VBD was 28%. Multivariable analysis revealed that male sex (AOR = 1.62, 95% CI [1.01–2.58], p < .05), higher educational attainment (AOR = 1.74, 95% CI [1.02–2.95], p<.05), good knowledge (AOR = 2.94, 95% CI [1.88–4.60], P < 0.001), favorable attitudes (AOR = 2.11, 95% CI [1.28–3.49], p < .003), previous donation experience (AOR = 3.65, 95% CI [2.12–6.28], p < .05), absence of fear of pain (AOR = 1.58, 95% CI [1.03–2.43], p < 0.05), community support (AOR = 2.21, 95% CI [1.40–3.47], p< 0.05), and proximity to donation sites (AOR = 2.09, 95% CI [1.20–3.63], p < .001) were significant predictors of donation practices.

Conclusion: “Voluntary blood donation (VBD) practice in Shashemene Town remains below national and WHO recommendations. To improve rates, awareness should be raised and misconceptions addressed through health education campaigns using mass media. Expanding access via mobile donation units, and encouraging repeat donations are also essential. Targeting women, less-educated groups, and integrating VBD into national health strategies will ensure sustainable progress.