Knowledge, Attitude, and Blood Donation Practices Among Medical Students in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND: Blood donation is a critical public health practice, yet many eligible individuals do not participate, even among healthcare students who are expected to lead by example. Understanding the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of medical students regarding blood donation is essential to improving future donation rates and addressing misconceptions. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 243 undergraduate medical students from various institutions in the western region of Saudi Arabia. Participants completed a structured questionnaire assessing their knowledge of blood donation eligibility, transfusion risks, benefits, attitudes toward donation, and past donation behavior. Statistical analysis was performed to identify associations between demographic variables and blood do-nation knowledge and practices. RESULTS: The majority of participants were female (83%) and Saudi nationals (86%), with most aged between 23 - 25 years. Knowledge about blood donation eligibility was moderate: 75.6% correctly identified the minimum age for donation, while only 29.6% were aware of the recommended donation interval. Most recognized transfusion-transmissible infections such as HIV (98.7%) and hepatitis B (95.1%). A high proportion (91.3%) correctly identified saving lives as the main benefit of donation, though misconceptions like boosting immunity were noted. Attitudes were overwhelmingly positive; 85.2% viewed donation as a moral responsibility and 85% were willing to donate voluntarily. However, only 26.8% had previously donated blood. Male students were significantly more likely to have donated than female students (44% vs. 20%; p < 0.01). Common barriers included health concerns, fear of needles, and personal reasons. CONCLUSIONS: Despite strong awareness and positive attitudes, actual blood donation rates among medical students remain low. Gender differences and personal barriers significantly impact donation behavior. These findings underscore the need for targeted educational efforts, awareness campaigns, and institutional support to translate positive intentions into practice and improve donation rates among future healthcare providers.