Community mobilization for blood donation, Cross River State, Nigeria. The Calabar PMM Team.
BACKGROUND
A study of institutions in Cross River State, Nigeria, revealed poor storage facilities and inadequate availability of blood. Focus group discussions highlighted people's fears and misconceptions about blood donations as important factors contributing to the problem.


METHODS
Blood facilities were upgraded in the teaching hospital and a secondary institution. Fifteen community mobilization sessions to improve attitudes and stimulate voluntary blood donation were conducted over three months in 1994. Non-cash incentives were offered, including certificates of honor, free blood screening and assurance of priority if a family member needed blood.


RESULTS
Blood donations to the teaching hospital maternity increased from 40 pints per month in 1991 to 81 in 1994. However, national strikes interrupted service and the increase was not sustained. At the secondary facility, blood transfusions increased from 14 in 1991 to 35 in 1995, with 100% of donations from volunteers.


RESULTS
The cost of community mobilization for blood donation was US $17,531.


CONCLUSIONS
Increasing voluntary blood donations through non-cash incentives and community mobilization is possible. No conclusions may be drawn regarding sustainability, however.
Ottong
J G
JG
Department of Sociology, University of Calabar, Nigeria.
Asuquo
E E
EE
Olaniran
N S
NS
Duke
F D
FD
Abia
R P
RP
D001290:Attitude; D001771:Blood Banks / Q000191:economics / Q000458:organization & administration; D001782:Blood Donors; D017144:Focus Groups; D006266:Health Education / Q000191:economics / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D008427:Maternal Health Services; D009549:Nigeria; D016730:Program Development / Q000191:economics