A Survey on Awareness and Attitudes Toward Organ Donation Among Medical Professionals, Medical Students, Patients, and Relatives in Bangladesh

Abstract

Background. This study assesses the level of knowledge and attitudes toward organ donation among doctors, nurses, medical students, patients, and relatives of patients at Dhaka Medical College Hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Methods. A cross sectional study was conducted at Dhaka Medical College Hospital among doctors, nurses, medical students, patients, and attendants (100 participants in each group). Participants completed a 20-item self-administered questionnaire that assessed levels of knowledge and attitudes regarding organ donation. Results. Among the 500 participants, 85% had heard about organ donation, but only 46% of doctors, 33% of nurses, and 41% of medical students could report the names of all the organs that can be donated. One-fourth (25.4%) had agreed to donate their organs (23% of doctors, 17% of nurses, 28% of medical students, 29% of patients, and 30% of attendants), and 26.0% did not agree to donate (17% of doctors, 19% of nurses, 16% of medical students, 42% of patients, and 36% of relatives). Less than half (43.8%) of participants reported that they would donate organs to help someone when they die. Among the entire sample, 16% reported that their family would be upset if they donated organs, and 12.6% reported that it was against their religion. Conclusion. Although medical professionals have a better understanding of organ donation than nonmedical individuals, their attitudes toward organ donation are similar to that of the general population. A strategic approach should be taken to develop and launch public campaigns targeting both medical professionals and the general population to educate and raise awareness about organ donation.