Impact of Direct Transplantation Experience on Attitudes Toward Organ Donation: A Cross-Sectional Study from Libya
Main Article Content
Abstract
Background: Organ transplantation remains the optimal therapy for end-stage organ failure; however, organ donation rates remain low in many developing countries, including Libya. Knowledge, ethical perceptions, religious beliefs, and trust in health systems are known to influence donation attitudes. Direct exposure to transplantation may play an important role in shaping these attitudes.
Objective: To evaluate the impact of direct transplantation experience on knowledge and attitudes toward organ donation among three distinct population groups in Libya.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 300 participants divided equally into three groups: relatives of transplanted patients, relatives of patients awaiting transplantation, and members of the general population with no transplantation exposure. Structured questionnaires assessed sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, and attitudes toward organ donation. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.
Results: Participants with direct transplantation experience demonstrated significantly higher knowledge levels and more favorable attitudes toward both living and deceased organ donation compared to the general population. Ethical acceptance and perception of religious permissibility were also significantly higher among exposed groups. Willingness to donate organs after death was highest among relatives of transplanted patients.
Conclusion: Direct exposure to transplantation positively influences attitudes toward organ donation. Public awareness strategies in Libya should incorporate patient and family narratives to enhance donation acceptance and address ethical and trust-related concerns.
Article Details
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