Impact of Seasonal Agriculture on Blood Donations in Kano, Northwest Nigeria and its Implications on Health Care

Abstract

Background: Blood donation is generally inadequate in Nigeria. Kano state is the most populous state in northern Nigeria where agriculture is a major occupation. Hence, we hypothesized that blood donations would be lower during rainy season as eligible donors become more engrossed in farming activities that distract them from blood donation. Materials and Methods: Accordingly, we retrospectively studied the amount of blood donations at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital in Kano, northern Nigeria (2009 to 2012). Results: Data analysis using Chi square test revealed significantly lower mean number of monthly donations during rainy seasons (Mean + SD: 587.2+15) in comparison to dry seasons (Mean + SD: 693.4+18), p<0.05. Conclusion: There is therefore the need to offset this seasonal shortfall in blood donations, and its potentially adverse implications on health care, by intensifying community enlightenment in order to boost blood donations during the rainy season.