Improving blood donation rates in Ghana using WhatsApp and docudramas
Community-based Communication Interventions for Increasing Repeat Donation Among First- Time Blood Donors in Ghana: A Pragmatic Type 1 Effectiveness- Implementation Hybrid Trial
This study is testing if using WhatsApp groups or short films can encourage first-time blood donors in Ghana to donate again more often compared to regular communication methods.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 882 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Minnesota Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Minneapolis, Minnesota) |
| Trial ID | NCT05973890 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of two innovative communication strategies—WhatsApp groups and docudramas—compared to standard engagement methods in encouraging repeat blood donation attempts among first-time donors in Ghana. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: one receiving WhatsApp communication, another watching a docudrama, and a control group receiving usual blood service communications. The study will track various outcomes over 14 months, including donor retention and changes in knowledge, attitudes, and motivations related to blood donation. The goal is to identify effective methods to increase blood donation frequency in the community.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are first-time whole blood donors aged 18 and older who are eligible to donate again and have access to a smartphone and WhatsApp.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of more than one lifetime whole blood donation will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly increase the number of repeat blood donations, thereby improving blood supply in Ghana.
How similar studies have performed: While similar community-based interventions have shown promise in other regions, this specific approach using WhatsApp and docudramas is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * At least 18 years-old * First-time whole blood donor with the SZBC of the NBSG * Eligible to donate again at the time of eligibility confirmation * Consent to participate * Understands one of English, Twi, or Ga * Have a smart phone * Have, or be willing to sign up for an active WhatsApp account * Be willing to watch a docudrama on blood donation in a group setting Exclusion Criteria: * History of more than one lifetime whole blood donation (with any blood center)
Where this trial is running
Minneapolis, Minnesota
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Susan E Telke, MS
- Email: telke001@umn.edu
- Phone: 6125902697
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.