A study on knowledge, attitude and practices about organ donation among college students in Chennai, Tamil Nadu -2012

Abstract

__________________________________________________________________________________________ Introduction: Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practices on organ donation is essential for better understanding of the community on different aspects of organ donation. It will further help us in improving health education initiatives thereby removing the hurdles behind organ donation. Purpose: To assess the knowledge, attitude and practice about organ donation among college students in Chennai, Tamil Nadu and to study the association of sociodemographic factors with knowledge, attitude and practice of organ donation among college students in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Material and methods: A cross-sectional study was done among 440 students aged 18 years and above in Hindustan Arts & Science College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The students were interviewed with a pretested questionnaire. The study was conducted between January 2012 to September 2012. Results: Though all the participants were aware of the term organ donation, knowledge about different aspects was low. 86.1% were not aware of legislation. 75%of respondents were in favor of organ donation, but only about 2% were registered for organ donation. Conclusion: This study implies the need for intensified and sustained education campaign to raise the knowledge on organ donation and its practice among students.