Finding effective ways to retain blood donors is crucial. This study seeks to compare, in a context of a voluntary and nonremunerated system, donor demographics and deterrents to blood donation among plasma/platelet donors (PPDs), regular whole blood donors (WBDs), and lapsed whole blood donors (LWBD). Among 1879 participants to a survey on motivations, time use, and blood donation, 207 WBDs (26%) and 148 PPDs (31%) said that they reduced their donation frequency over the last 5 years. Participants to this survey also included 609 LWBDs, who did not donate in the past 5 years. We asked about reasons why they reduce or cease to donate blood and demographic variables. χ(2) Tests were completed to determine which deterrents stand out across the 3 blood donor groups. The deterrent indicating the highest percentage was "time constraints related to work or studies" (43% for all respondents). Comparison of WBDs, LWBDs, and PPDs shows that results for 7 deterrents were statistically different between the 3 groups. Obstacles to donating blood also vary based on sex, age (life course), and level of education. Blood collection agencies should consider developing new retention strategies tailored to blood donors, taking into account the specific profiles of female/male donors, events that typically occur at various stages of life, and particular challenges associated with differences in levels of education.

This study sought to compare demographics and donation motivations among plasma/platelet donors (PPDs) and whole blood donors (WBDs), in a voluntary and non-remunerated context. Motives to donate blood and demographic characteristics were collected through questionnaires completed by 795 WBDs and 473 PPDs. Comparison of WBDs and PPDs under chi-square tests showed that 17 out of 23 motivators were statistically different according to various demographic variables. These results demonstrate the existence of specific donor profiles both for WBDs and PPDs. Agencies should develop new recruitment strategies tailored to these donors, especially if they wish to convince WBDs to convert to apheresis donation.

Background. Finding ways to recruit apheresis donors is crucial. The aim of this study was to provide a quantitative analysis of the motivations of regular plasma/platelets donors (PPDs) in comparison with those of regular whole blood donors (WBDs), in a voluntary and nonremunerated context. Study Design and Methods. Motives to donate blood and demographic characteristics were collected through questionnaires completed by 795 WBDs and 473 PPDs. Chi-square tests were completed to determine which motivations stand out across the two blood donor groups. Results. The motivator selected by the highest percentage was “my blood can save lives.” Comparison of WBDs and PPDs showed that 12 out of 23 items were statistically significantly different from one group to another. Conclusion. The belief that helping others is in their nature is more prevalent among PPDs. In this sense, their profile is unique. Four other motivators distinguish this group from the WBDs: “I think there is a strong need for blood products,” “it gives me a sense of pride,” “I like to have goals,” and “I receive telephone reminders.” These motivators point to the role the ongoing support provided by blood collection agencies (BCAs) plays with PPDs.

Key Messages Blood donation in rural areas is highly affected by local culture. Accessibility to blood drives greatly affects blood donation, regardless of place of residence. Donors from suburban environments put their family and children at the centre of their motivation for giving blood.

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