Attitudes, knowledge levels and behaviors of Islamic religious officials about organ donation in Turkey: National survey study.

backgroundThe most important factors affecting the decision of organ donation are socioeconomic, educational, cultural, and religious factors.

aimTo evaluate Islamic religious officials' attitudes and behaviors toward and level of knowledge on organ donation and transplantation.

methodsThis study surveyed 2350 Islamic religious officials in Turkey. To ensure a representative sample, we used and modified the Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistics. Based on the Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistics-II, Turkey was divided into 26 regions. The number of Islamic religious officials in each city and town in each of the 26 regions was proportionate to the population. A stratified sampling method based on demographic factors, such as age, marital status, and educational level, was used. Data were collected by PRP Research and Consultancy Company using computer-assisted personal interviewing.

resultsOf the 2350 religious officials surveyed, 59.9% were in the age group of 35-54 years; 84.7% had either a bachelor's or a master's degree; 99.7% never donated an organ; and 75.4% were not considering donating in the future. About 22% of the religious officials said religious belief was their reason for not donating; 45.3% did not indicate any reason. Although 41.5% of participants considered cadaveric organ donation as the best source of organ transplantation, 36.3% deemed living donor transplantation as the best option. Meanwhile, 52.9% of participants considered donating an organ from a brain dead relative in case they were asked for permission; 80.1% considered donating to a relative, if necessary; 81.6% considered undergoing organ transplantation, if necessary. About 83.7% of participants deemed organ donation as a proper human behavior; 60.5% believed that it is allowed by Islam; 55% said they preach for organ donation at their mosque; and 41.1% said their views of organ donation were influenced by their leaders in society.

conclusionReligious officials are unsure whether or not organ donation is respectful of their religious belief, but they consider donating an organ if a relative need to undergo organ transplantation.