The attitudes and perceptions of international university students towards organ donation in the United Kingdom: A qualitative empirical study

Abstract

Background: Organ transplantation is one of the ultimate treatment modalities for patients with end-stage diseases. However, the demand for organs is not met because the demand always surpasses the supply which makes it a public health concern. Attitudes and knowledge of international students towards organ donation in the UK has been shown to affect donation rates among ethnic groups in the UK. The main aim of this study is to explore the knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of international students in Liverpool John Moores University towards organ donation in the United Kingdom. 

Methods: A generic qualitative approach was used to gain insights into international students’ understanding and awareness of organ donation at LJMU. It involved four focus group discussions with a total of 19 participants among international students studying at LJMU. Thematic analysis was used to identify, analyse and interpret meaningful themes. 

Results: The results of this study showed that participants had a basic knowledge of what organ donation is and zero knowledge of the organ donor register and opt-out system in the UK. Also, most of the participants stated they were not willing to donate their organs, except for a family or a loved one. Most participants would not be willing to register on the UK organ donor scheme. Participants had a negative attitude and reaction towards the opt-out system currently in place. Furthermore, the data showed that religion, cultural beliefs, mistrust of the healthcare system, compatibility issues, and lack of awareness and knowledge are major barriers to international students enlisting on the organ donation scheme in the UK. 

Conclusion: These findings highlight a crucial challenge for public health initiatives aimed at increasing organ donation rates as there is a gap between international students’ general willingness to help loved ones and their broader acceptance of organ donation as a societal norm. The study’s findings emphasize the urgent need for targeted education and awareness campaigns to address knowledge gaps about specific organ donation mechanisms and systems. Enhancing familiarity with the organ donor register and understanding the opt-out system can significantly increase donor registration rates and public trust in the organ donation process.