Devising focused strategies to improve organ donor registrations: A cross-sectional study among professional drivers in coastal South India

Abstract

Background In India, annually, 500,000 people die due to non-availability of organs. Given the large proportion of brain death amongst road accident victims, any improvement in organ donation practices amongst this cohort could potentially address this deficit. In this study, we identify the potential areas for intervention to improve organ donation amongst professional drivers, a population more likely to suffer from road accidents. Methods 300 participants were surveyed using a structured, orally-administered questionnaire to assess knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding organ donation. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify key variables affecting intent to practice. Results Nearly half our participants had unsatisfactory knowledge and attitude scores. Knowledge and attitude was positively correlated, r s (298) = .247, p < .001, with better scores associated with a higher likelihood of intent to practice organ donation [AOR: 2.23 (1.26–3.94), p = .006; AOR: 12.164 (6.85–21.59), p < .001 respectively]. Lack of family support and fear of donated organs going into medical research were the key barriers for the same [AOR: 0.43 (0.19–0.97), p = .04; AOR: 0.27 (0.09–0.85), p = .02 respectively]. Conclusion Targeted health-education, behaviour change communication, and legal interventions, in conjunction, are key to improving organ donor registrations.