Understanding barriers to blood donation by Sub-Saharan African migrants and refugees : preliminary focus group results

Blood donation rates in Australia are relatively low (i.e., around 3%) but are even lower among migrants. For Sub-Saharan African migrants, availability of blood is more problematic as they have higher rates of rare blood types and increased incidence of diseases requiring blood transfusions. Meeting their increased need for blood products requires blood services to understand socio-cultural beliefs and practices associated with blood and blood donation. This research sought to address this gap. Nine focus groups were conducted with Sub-Saharan African migrant community members in order to understand the barriers inhibiting blood donation in this sub-population. Preliminary analyses of results indicate this group is positively disposed to blood donation, but there are some negative attitudes and knowledge gaps that contribute to low donation rates. Additionally, there is a general feeling of discrimination that is also inhibiting donation. The implications of this study are discussed for enhancing blood donation levels within the Sub-Saharan community.