The attitude of Latin American immigrants in Florida (USA) towards deceased organ donation - a cross section cohort study.

Abstract

The Latin American (LA) population resident in the USA is a growing subgroup of the population. To find out the structure of attitude towards organ donation in the LA population resident in Florida (USA). A sample was taken of LA residents in Florida, randomized and stratified by nationality, age and sex (n=1524). Attitude was assessed using a validated questionnaire (PCID-DTO Rios) that was self-completed anonymously. The survey completion rate was 95% (n=1450). Attitude was favourable in 33% of respondents (n=485), against in 40% (n=575) and undecided in 27% (n=390). The following variables were associated with a favourable attitude: country of origin (Dominican Republic; P=0.038); sex (female; P<0.001); marital status (married; P<0.001); level of education (university; P<0.001); previous experience of the subject (P<0.001); considering the need for a transplant in the future (P<0.001); understanding the concept of brain death (P=0.003); attitude towards donating a family member's organs (P<0.001); having discussed organ donation and transplantation with one's family (P<0.001) or with one's partner (P<0.001); participation in pro-social type activities (P<0.001); the respondent's religion (atheist-agnostic; P<0.001); a respondent's knowledge of the attitude of his or her religion towards organ donation (P<0.001); no concern about mutilation after donation (P<0.001); acceptance of cremation (P<0.001); burial (P<0.001); and an autopsy if one were needed (P<0.001). The attitude towards donation of LA in Florida is worse than that reported in the native population and is associated with certain psychosocial factors.