Questionnaire-based study evaluating awareness for organ and body donation and cadaveric dissection among the general population attending mid Gujarat region

Abstract

Introduction: Organ transplantation provides benefits to society as a whole as well as to the individuals who receive transplants. However, the success of transplantation for end-stage organ failure is limited due to the availability of suitable organs for transplant Public awareness is critical for the development of donation program. Methods: Total 200 adult participants were included in the studies from outpatient department by consecutive sampling method. A self-administered semi structured questionnaire was filled by participants in the presence of researchers. Results: Awareness of organ donation (67.5%) was higher than awareness of body donation (34.5%) and cadaveric dissection (32.5%). About 28% and 24% participants were aware of live organ donation and brain death. Willingness for organ donation was observed 21.5% participants, unwillingness in 51.5% of participants and 27.0% in undecided state of mind. Conclusion: Knowledge level regarding organ donation was found sufficient but same did not reflect in their attitude and practice towards organ donation. Educational session of health care professional through internet and television can play critical role in rising up positive attitude towards organ donation. Fear of misuse of donated organ is the most common reason for unwillingness to be a donor.