Abstract: PUB479
Acceptance of Opt-Out Organ Donation in Saudi Arabia: Insights from a Cross-Sectional Study
Session Information
Category: Transplantation
- 2102 Transplantation: Clinical
Author
- Alobaidi, Sami A., University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
Background
Existing research reveals varied attitudes towards organ donation in the Middle East. This study specifically investigates public opinion on opt-out organ donation registration in Saudi Arabia, addressing a research gap identified through comparative studies in Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
Methods
This study analyzed data from a cross-sectional survey conducted among 1,397 residents of Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire, adapted from a previous study in Qatar, included three sections to gather socio-demographic information, assess general awareness about organ donation, and explore participants' agreement with opt-out consent along with their beliefs related to organ donation using the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) model. Statistical methods were employed to determine significant associations and trends.
Results
Among the participants, nearly half (44.4%) supported opt-out consent, with women and Saudi citizens showing considerable support at 25.7% and 39.1% respectively. Women and individuals with diploma/graduation-level education were significantly more likely to support opt-out (p<0.001 and p=0.012, respectively). Of the opt-out supporters, a vast majority were familiar with organ donation (98.06%), willing to promote it (93.05%), and believed that registration saves lives (98.38%). Furthermore, 86.75% expressed readiness to support with more information, and 85.78% if informed about their religion's perspective on donation. A large proportion believed that both living and posthumous donations positively impact life after death (92.25%). However, concerns were raised about inadequate care (33.44%) and bodily disfigurement (28.43%) post-mortem. Most felt healthy enough to donate (45.56%) and appropriate in age (57.67%).
Conclusion
The study reveals considerable openness among Saudis toward an opt-out organ donation system, suggesting a potential avenue for significantly increasing organ donation rates. While acknowledging cultural and familial influences, targeted interventions are vital to address specific barriers such as concerns about post-mortem care and bodily integrity. Implementing informed policies based on these insights could facilitate the successful adoption of an opt-out policy, enhancing organ donation rates in the region.