Seroprevalence of Transfusion Transmitted Infection (TTI) and demographic profile of seropositive blood donors in a tertiary care hospital

Abstract

Transfusion departments have long been crucial in the screening, monitoring, and management of diseases spread by blood transfusions. Transfusions are a life-saving intervention that saves lives all over the world. Research has indicated that blood banks with component facilities have greater rates of positive for HIV, HCV, and HBV, whereas blood banks without component facilities have higher rates of syphilis and malaria. A retrospective study on blood donors done at the Blood Bank of a tertiary care hospital of western Maharashtra, India, from January 2015 to December 2020. The study analyzed a total of 15,400 donors, of which 412 donors came out to be seropositive. Majority of seropositive blood donors were in the age group of 18-30 years. The study showed a significant difference between seropositivity of voluntary and replacement donors of the year 2020. Educating, clearing the notions/myths regarding blood donation, telling the benefits and involvement of social media and NGO in promoting blood donation activities can play an important role in breaking the ice between people and blood donations. It will also create awareness regarding blood donation in the general public.