MULTI-GALLON BLOOD-DONORS - WHO ARE THEY

Background: Although vital to the nation's blood centers, multi-gallon blood donors have never been the focus of investigation. Study Design and Methods: In the fall of 1994, questionnaires were sent to 500 individuals who had donated 5 gallons or more and to 500 randomly selected donors. Results: Multi-gallon donors reported that they received little recognition or support for their efforts and were not pressured by friends or family. One-third were not allowed time off from work to donate. One in five reported having a ''bad experience'' while donating. Donors who had family members or friends who had received blood donated a greater number of units than those who were not as close to blood recipients. Conclusion: Women and minorities are underrepresented among long-term donors. Further research is needed to learn what ''captures'' donors and helps them to develop the psychological commitment to continue to give, as well as why few multi-gallon donors talk about blood donation.