OBJECTIVES: Blood supply is key to cure and save patients in need. The aim of our study was to analyse the Hungarian population’s knowledge and attitude, and to know which factors help, affect, or even hinder blood donation.

METHODS: A quantitative and qualitative, descriptive study with non-probability convenient sampling method was carried out between October and November of 2021. The sample consisted of Hungarian citizens aged 18 to 65 years (n=624). An online questionnaire was used for data collection with questions about socio-demographic data, willingness to donate, knowledge and attitude. Data were analysed with Microsoft Excel and IBM SPSS v. 26 software. Descriptive statistics, independent samples t-test, χ²-test, correlation analysis and ANOVA were calculated (p<0.05).

RESULTS: Mean age of the sample is 39±12.7 years (min=18, max=65). 82.4% of the respondents have already been donated blood within their lifetime. They also have adequate knowledge about the different aspects of blood donation. There is no significant connection between the level of knowledge (mean=11.875 points) and the attitude variables (mean=73.663) (p=0.217). Educational level affects attitude towards blood donation (p=0.024).

CONCLUSIONS: Our sample had adequate knowledge about the different aspects of blood donation. Those with higher educational level have a more favourable attitude towards blood donation. The main motivational factor for donation is altruism. It is essential to further increase the number of donors in the future. Also, to increase population’s interest and their motivation, as well as their level of knowledge are of pivotal importance.