Evaluation of the Law of Presumed Consent After Brain Death by Spanish Journalism Students

Abstract

Introduction Information provided by journalists is crucial to create a climate of social opinion. This is important in organ donation and transplantation (ODT), wherein the participation of the general public is essential to obtain organs. Objective The objective of this study was to determine the knowledge of students taking a degree in journalism about the concept of brain death and the law of presumed consent. Materials and Methods The study involved 129 journalism degree students in the 2005–2006 academic year from a university in the south-east of Spain. Attitudes on the psychosocial aspects of ODT were evaluated using a validated questionnaire. The self-administered survey was completed anonymously in classes and compulsory practical sessions. Results The questionnaire completion rate was 98% (n = 126). Of the students surveyed, 43% (n = 54) understood the concept of brain death, 44% (n = 56) stated that they had doubts, whereas 13% (n = 16) believed that a person with brain death can recover and lead a normal life. Their knowledge was more accurate in the final than in the first year (54% vs 47%; P = .016). Most students 66% (n = 83) believed that it would be interesting to receive an informative talk about ODT. Concerning legislation, 75% of students were against the law of presumed consent, whereas 25% were in favor. Conclusion More than 50% of journalism students do not understand the concept of brain death. Furthermore, up to 75% do not accept the law of presumed consent that donation must be made.