Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Regarding Organ Donation among Blood Donors – A Comparative Study with Nonblood Donors at a Rural Tertiary Care Hospital in Central India

Abstract

Export Introduction: Organ transplantation is the most preferred treatment for many end-stage organ diseases. However, its rate is relatively low in India. There is a gross discrepancy between the number of people requiring organ transplantation due to failure and the organ donor pool. It is expected that the donors can easily accept the idea of organ donation as they are already involved in acts of humanitarianism. Aims: This study aimed to compare knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding organ donation among blood donors and nonblood donors. Materials and Methods: It was a cross-sectional analytical study among two groups: blood donors and nonblood donors, conducted over 2 months. A standardized questionnaire proforma was prepared, which consisted of questions to assess the person’s knowledge, attitude, and awareness about organ donation. Results: A total of 754 people participated in the study. Of which, 722 were enrolled after strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. Three hundred and sixty-one were blood donors, and 361 were nonblood donors. There was a comparatively large difference in knowledge, attitude, and practices among blood donors regarding organ donation compared to nondonors. It was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The blood donors had significantly more knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding organ donation than nondonors. Even though blood donors had a positive attitude toward organ donation, only 42 participants have committed to organ donation to date. If we can bridge the gap and provide the basic knowledge regarding organ donation, it can help to build a positive attitude regarding the same in society. An awareness campaign regarding organ donation can be conducted in the community regularly to promote the process of organ donation.