Prevalence, causes, impacts, and management of needle phobia: An international survey of a general adult population

Abstract

Needle phobia is an overlooked condition that affects virtually all medical procedures. Our study aimed to identify how commonly needle phobia is experienced, its underlying reasons, impacts, and potential mitigation strategies. A global survey was conducted in a general adult population using a questionnaire based on a targeted literature review that identified under-researched areas. The 21-item questionnaire was completed on a secure, web-based survey platform. Statistical analyses and models were utilized to identify relationships between participant characteristics and needle phobia. Of the 2,098 participants enrolled in the study, 63.2% (n = 1,325) reported experiencing needle phobia, and rated the intensity of their fear as 5.7 (±2.6) on average on a scale from 0 (no fear) to 10 (very strong/unreasonable fear or avoidance). According to the logistic regression model, other medical fears (odds coefficient = 2.14) and family history (1.67) were the most important factors associated with needle phobia. General anxiety (96.1%) and pain (95.5%) were the most common reasons for needle fear. Of the participants experiencing needle phobia, 52.2% stated avoiding blood draws, followed by 49.0% for blood donations, and 33.1% for vaccinations. While 24.3% of participants have seen a therapist, most have never sought help. The majority have shared their fear with nurses (61.1%) or physicians (44.4%); however, the provider helpfulness was rated as 4.9 (±3.1) on average on a scale from 0 (unhelpful) to 10 (extremely helpful). Utilizing non-invasive alternatives (94.1%) and smaller needles (91.1%) were most commonly identified as potential device-related solutions to alleviate fear; distractions (92.1%) and relaxation techniques (91.7%) were the top non-device-related approaches. Our findings highlight the prevalent nature of needle phobia and provide insights into its etiology and effects on patient care. Clinician responses were not perceived as helpful, emphasizing the need to address needle phobia, and improve patient experience.

A microneedle transdermal patch loaded with iron(ii) nanoparticles for non-invasive sustained delivery to combat anemia

“…Apart from that, fear of needles is a very common problem in patients requiring intravenous iron supplementation. 4 On the other hand, microneedle (MN) patches, which consists of an array of micrometer-sized needles placed on a base support, could help to overcome this problem as it provides fast and painless transdermal drug delivery. [5][6][7] Moreover, loading 1 week -12 days requirement of iron in a slow-release biodegradable MN patch would address the issues of bioavailability as well as unpleasant side-effects, at the same time eliminating the need for daily oral supplementary intake, and thus reducing noncompliance risks.…”

Perioperative Management of a Needle-Phobic Parturient for a Cesarean Section: A Case Report

“…Needle phobia, most of which is based on painful past experiences, is highly prevalent in varying degrees [ 1 ]. Needle phobia interferes with medical practice in a variety of settings, especially in painful procedures [ 2 , 3 ].…”

A Bioinspired and Cost‐Effective Device for Minimally Invasive Blood Sampling

“…[ 1 , 2 ] Conventional venipuncture, although widely practiced, can be invasive and distressing for patients grappling with needle phobia and fear, which affect ≈30% of the general population. [ 3 , 4 , 5 ] This discomfort is especially noticeable in children, where it may result in an increased avoidance of medical treatments involving needles. [ 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 ] Furthermore, venipuncture is costly as it requires trained personnel, extended sample processing times, and extensive management of biohazardous waste residues.…”