Multivariate Analysis of the Factors Affecting Attitude Toward Organ Donation Among the Ecuadorian Population Residing in Spain.

INTRODUCTION: Immigrants from Ecuador represent the largest group of Latin Americans in Spain and are, therefore, a subgroup of interest to understand their attitudes and influences in respect to organ donation and transplantation. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the attitude of nationals of Ecuador residing in Spain regarding deceased organ donation. METHODS: The study population included the Ecuadorian population residing in Spain. A sample of population older than 15 years was obtained randomly and stratified by age and sex (n=461). Attitude was assessed using a validated questionnaire on psychosocial aspects toward organ donation (PCID-DTO-Ríos). Assistance from immigration support associations in Spain was needed to advice on the location of potential respondents. RESULTS: Attitude toward cadaveric donation was favorable in 59% (n=271) of respondents, 12% (n=57) were against cadaveric donation, and 29% (n=133) were undecided. Several variables were associated with having a more favorable attitude. In the multivariate analysis, the following variables were independently associated with a more positive attitude toward organ donation: 1. level of formal education (odds ratio [OR]=6.849 [25.641-1.818]; P = .004); 2. being in favor of donating a family member's organs (OR=8.849 [20.833-3.717]; P < .001); 3. having commented at a family level about transplant (OR=3.717 [6.578-2.109]; P < .001); 4. not being concerned about the possible mutilation of the body after donation (OR=4.608 [8.547-2.487]; P < .001) and 5. knowing the attitude of one's religion toward donation (OR=7.462 [34.482-1.623]; P = .010). CONCLUSIONS: The attitude toward cadaveric organ donation among the Ecuadorian population residing in Spain is less favorable than that of the Spanish population and is determined by many different psychosocial variables.

Knowledge of the Concept of Brain Death: Is This an Obstacle in the Acceptance of Donation and Transplantation of Organs Among the Bolivian Population Residing in Spain?

INTRODUCTION: The Bolivian population is growing in Spain. The knowledge and acceptance of the concept of brain death are fundamental. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the level of understanding of the brain death concept among the population of Bolivians residing in Spain. METHODS: The study population was Bolivians living in Spain. The inclusion criteria were being older than 15 years, being born in Bolivia, and residing in Spain; participants were selected randomly from this group and stratified by age and sex. Knowledge of the concept of brain death was assessed using a validated questionnaire on psychosocial aspects toward organ donation. A group of people to be surveyed was randomly selected. Assistance from immigration support associations in Spain was needed to advise on the location of potential respondents. The survey was self-administered and completed anonymously. RESULTS: Of the 206 respondents, 27% understood brain death (BD) and believed that this was the death of an individual. Of the rest, 18% did not understand it and the remaining 55% believed it did not mean the death of a patient. Those who understood the concept of BD were more in favor of deceased donation than those who did not (52% vs 47%; P = .886). None of the sociopersonal variables analyzed is associated with knowledge of the concept of BD. A high percentage of respondents indicated fear of apparent death during organ donation. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of the Bolivian population residing in Spain does not understand the concept of BD. Contrary to most psychosocial studies, it is not associated with attitudes toward organ donation or other sociopersonal factors.

Attitude of the Citizens of Havana, Cuba, Toward Organ Donation: A Multivariate Analysis of the Psychosocial Factors Affecting Attitude.

INTRODUCTION: Because personal decisions affect the availability of organs for transplants, awareness about organ donations among the general population is fundamental. OBJECTIVE: To analyze attitudes toward organ donation among the citizens of Havana, Cuba. METHODS: The sample population was the residents of the city of Havana, Cuba. The inclusion criterion was being older than 15 years; the sample was obtained randomly and stratified by age and sex. Attitude was assessed using a validated questionnaire on psychosocial aspects of organ donation and transplant (PCID-DTO-Ríos). A random selection of people to be surveyed was carried out. RESULTS: A sample of 920 respondents was included in the study. Attitude toward cadaveric donation was favorable in 68% of respondents, while 14% were against and 18% were undecided. Several variables were associated with having a more favorable attitude. In the multivariate analysis, the following variables continue to feature as independent variables (P < .05): 1. level of studies; 2. knowledge of the concept of brain death; 3. attitude toward organ donation of a relative; 4. having discussed the issue of organ donation and transplantation with one's family; 5. the attitude of the couple toward organ donation and transplantation; 6. the religion of the respondent; 7. knowing the opinion of one's religion toward organ transplantation; 8. fear of manipulation of the body after death; and 9. acceptance of burial as a treatment of the body after the death. CONCLUSIONS: The attitude toward cadaveric organ donation among the residents of Havana is favorable and similar to that of the citizens of Spain. Improving the organ procurement system will increase donation rates given the population's awareness of the issue.

Psychosocial Factors Affecting Attitude Toward Organ Donation in Santiago, Cuba.

INTRODUCTION: Awareness about organ donation among the general population is fundamental to organ donation programs. It is important to determine the factors that influence attitudes toward organ donation within the general population in order to carry out cost-effective campaigns. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the attitude toward organ donation among Santiago, Cuba, citizens. METHODS: The study population encompassed residents in Santiago, Cuba. A sample population of residents older than 15 years was obtained randomly and stratified by age and sex. Attitude was assessed using a validated questionnaire on psychosocial aspects toward organ donation and transplant (PCID-DTO Ríos). Available census data were used. The survey was self-administered and completed anonymously. RESULTS: Of the 455 respondents, 70% of respondents are in favour of cadaveric donation, 16% are against, and 14% were undecided. Several variables were associated with having a more favorable attitude. And in the multivariate analysis, the following variables continue to feature as independent variables: 1. knowledge of the concept of brain death [OR = 2.386 (4.761-1.194); P = .014]; 2. being in favor of donating a family member's organs [OR = 3.067 (5.952-1.584); P = .001]; 3. a partner's favorable attitude [OR = 5.795 (1.477-22.731); P = .012]; 4. being an atheist/agnostic as the religious beliefs [OR = 1.845 (3.289-1.038); P = .037]; 5. not being concerned about the possible mutilation of the body after donation [OR = 7.437 (2.918-18.955); P < .001]; 6. not accepting other treatment options after death, such as inhumation [OR = 3.048 (5.714-1.626); P = .001]. CONCLUSIONS: The attitude toward cadaveric organ donation among the Santiago, Cuba population is favorable and it is associated with several psychosocial factors.

Are Dominicans in Favor of Xenotransplantation? A Study of the Attitude of Dominican Immigrants Residing in Spain and the United States.

Xenotransplantation carries many social and cultural implications. The immigrant population in countries with xenotransplantation programs, such as Spain and the United States, will play an important role in accepting such therapy. The objective of the study is to analyze the attitude toward xenotransplantation among the Dominican population residing in the United States and Spain. METHODS: The study population was born in the Dominican Republic and resides in the southeastern United States and Spain. A sample population older than 15 years was obtained randomly and stratified by age and sex. Attitude was assessed using a validated questionnaire on psychosocial aspects toward xenotransplantation (PCID-XENOTx-Ríos). A random selection of people to be surveyed was carried out. Assistance from immigration support associations was needed to advise on the location of potential respondents. RESULTS: A total of 123 respondents were included in the study: A sample was taken of residents of the population from the Dominican Republic residing in Florida, United States (n = 66), and in Spain (n = 57). If it was assumed that xenotransplanted organs functioned as well as human ones, 30% would be in favor. If the results were worse, only 7% would be in favor. This favorable attitude was related to the following variables (P < .05): level of education, an attitude in favor of deceased and living organ donation, and having spoken about donation and transplantation within the family. CONCLUSIONS: The attitude toward xenotransplantation among the population from the Dominican Republic who are residing in the southeastern United States and Spain is unfavorable.

Level of Acceptance of Solid Organ and Tissue Xenotransplantation Among the Bolivian Population Residing in Spain.

The Bolivian population is growing in Spain. Xenotransplantation of organs and/or tissues carries many social and cultural implications. It is important to find out the level of acceptance of xenotransplantation in immigrant populations, especially in populations where there are preclinical trials. The objective of the study is to analyze the attitude toward xenotransplantation of organs and tissues in the Bolivian population residing in Spain and the variables that influence their attitude. METHODS: We selected a sample of the Bolivian population living in Spain. A sample of the population older than 15 years was obtained randomly and stratified by age and sex. Attitude was assessed using a validated questionnaire on psychosocial aspects toward xenotransplantation (PCID-XENOTX-Ríos). RESULTS: Of the 206 respondents, 26% of respondents are in favor of xenotransplantation of organs if it was assumed that xenotransplanted organs functioned as well as human ones. If the results were worse, only 6% would be in favor. The following factors were associated with this attitude: (1) level of education (P = .008), (2) a favorable attitude toward human donation (P = .004), (3) a partner's favorable attitude toward transplantation (P < .001), and (4) a belief that one might need a transplant in the future (P = .01). The following were associated with attitude in the multivariate analysis: (1) having secondary education (odds ratio, 3.690; P = .004) and (2) a partner's favorable attitude toward transplantation (odds ratio, 6.024; P = .003). CONCLUSIONS: The attitude of Bolivian residents in Spain toward xenotransplantation is negative and is determined by educational and family factors.

Emigration From Puerto Rico to Florida: Multivariate Analysis of Factors That Condition Attitudes of the Puerto Rican Population Toward Organ Donation for Transplant.

BACKGROUND: The Puerto Rican population represents one of the largest immigration groups in Florida, and this has an impact on the organ transplant donation process. Our aim was to analyze attitudes toward organ donation among Puerto Ricans who currently reside in the state of Florida (USA). METHODS: The population screened consisted of individuals >15 years old, who were born in Puerto Rico, living in Florida, and awaiting organs for transplant. All participants completed the "PCID-DTO Rios" questionnaire. Random selection was done according to stratification. Support from immigration associations in Spain was needed for advice on the locations of potential respondents. Study participation was anonymized and self-administered. RESULTS: There were 259 respondents, 37% (n = 95) were in favor of donation, 36% (n = 93) were against donation, and 27% (n = 71) were undecided. The variables associated with these attitudes were: age (P = .017); civil status (P = .021); level of education (P < .001); previous experience with donation and transplant (P < .001); attitude toward organ donation of a relative (P < .001); carrying out pro-social activities (P < .001); discussing the issue of transplant with the family (P < .001) or couple (P < .001); attitude toward incineration (P < .001), burial (P < .001), and autopsy (P < .001); fear of mutilation after donation (P < .001); and religious beliefs (P < .001). In the multivariate study, it remained an independent variable to have discussed the issue at the family level (odds ratio = 11.627; P = .009). CONCLUSION: The Puerto Rican study population residing in Florida has an unfavorable attitude toward organ donation.

Differences in Attitudes Toward Living Kidney Donation Among Dominican Immigrants Living in Spain and the United States.

BACKGROUND: The Dominican population has a double-emigration pathway: one is to the USA, by proximity, and the other is to Spain, by sociocultural identification. Our aim was to determine attitudes toward living organ donation among Dominicans residing in Florida (USA) and Spain. METHODS: All study participants were at least 15 years old and living in either Florida (USA) or Spain, and stratified by gender and age. A questionnaire on attitudes toward living kidney donation ("PCID-LKD Ríos") was used. The support of immigrant associations in Florida and Spain was required to advise on survey locations. Data obtained were anonymized and self-administered. RESULTS: The study questionnaire was completed by 123 Dominicans, 68% of whom were in favor of living related kidney donation. There were differences (P = .004) according to the country of residence. Eighty-one percent of Spain's Dominican residents were in favor, compared with 56% of Florida's residents. Factors associated with attitude toward donation were level of education (P < .001), previous experience with organ donation (P = .006), attitude toward cadaveric organ donation (P < .001), belief in the possibility of needing a transplant in the future (P = .016), discussing the issue with one's family (P = .007), discussing the issue with husband/wife/partner (P = .002), carrying out pro-social activities (P = .029), religious beliefs (P = .001), and understanding the risk of living kidney donation (P = .046). CONCLUSION: Attitudes toward living kidney donation among immigrant Dominicans varies between Spain and the USA, with the former showing a more positive view.

Factors That Affect the Attitudes of the Bolivian Population in Spain With Regard to Organ Donation for Transplant.

BACKGROUND: The Bolivian population is an emerging Latin American immigrant group in Spain, several of whom have been transplanted or are awaiting transplant. We aimed to assess attitudes toward organ donation among Bolivians currently residing in Spain. METHOD: The population screened was born in Bolivia but living in Spain, stratified by gender and age. The appraisal tool used was a questionnaire that assesses attitudes toward organ donation for transplant ("PCID-DTO Ríos"). Support from immigration associations in Spain was needed for advice on locations of potential respondents. Survey participation was anonymized and the questionnaire was self-administered. Verbal consent was obtained before participation. RESULTS: There were 206 respondents: 49% (n = 101) in favor of donating their organs after death; 21% (n = 44) against donation; and 30% (n = 61) undecided. Their attitudes were found to be associated with level of education (P = .008), previous experience with donation and transplant (P = .011), concern regarding mutilation after donation (P = .002), knowing the attitude of their religion toward transplant (P = .001), the opinion of their partner (P < .001), and the possibility of needing a future transplant (P = .050). In the multivariate study, the main factor was having a partner in favor of organ donation (odds ratio = 16.129; P = .003). CONCLUSION: Attitudes toward organ donation among Bolivians residing in Spain are far more negative compared with rest of the Spanish population, due to various factors.

Knowledge of the Brain Death Concept Among the Population of Havana, Cuba.

BACKGROUND: One of the main reasons against organ donation is the fear of apparent death due to ignorance of the brain death concept. Our aim was to assess knowledge about and acceptance of the brain death concept among the population of Havana, Cuba. METHODS: The population screened, stratified by gender and age, included those >15 years old and living in Havana, Cuba. The appraisal tool utilized was a questionnaire on attitude toward organ donation ("PCID-DTO Ríos"). A random selection of individuals were surveyed according to the stratification. Cuba's census data were used. The participation was anonymized and self-administered. The verbal consent of participants was provided. RESULTS: There were 920 respondents: 31% (n = 282) knew the concept of brain death and accepted it; 57% (n = 529) did not; and 12% (n = 109) had a misperception, or did not accept brain death as a person's death. Those who knew and accepted the concept had a more favorable attitude toward their own organ donation after death (85% vs 61%; P < .001). The psychosocial factors related to the knowledge of brain death concept were: the gender (P = .002), to make up for speaking at a family level about the organ transplant (P < .001), the couple's opinion about the organ donation (P < .001) and the religion (P < .001). CONCLUSION: The brain death concept is not well understood in the population of Havana, Cuba.

Factors That Condition the Attitude Toward Living Related Kidney Donation Among Santiago of Cuba's Population.

INTRODUCTION: Living kidney donation is currently the most important kidney donor source in Latin America, and it is necessary to further increase its rates. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the attitude toward living kidney donation among the Santiago de Cuba's population and to determine the sociopersonal factors with which it is associated. METHOD: The population over 15 years old residing in Santiago de Cuba, stratified by sex and age, was screened. The "PCID-LKD Ríos" attitude questionnaire toward living kidney donation was administered to a random selection of the people surveyed according to the stratification and the census data. The completion was anonymized and self-administered. Verbal consent was obtained. RESULTS: The study was completed by 445 people, of whom the 86% (n = 389) were in favor of living related kidney donation. This attitude is associated with the level of education (P < .001); previous experience with organ donation (P = .006); attitude toward cadaveric organ donation (P < .001); carrying out of prosocial activities (P = .010); discussion of the issue with the family (P < .001) and the significant other (P < .001); concern about mutilation after donation (P = .001); religious beliefs (P = .001); and assessment of the risk of living kidney donation (P < .001). In the multivariate study, the following variables persisted: (1) level of education; (2) attitude of cadaveric donation; (3) carrying out of prosocial activities; and (4) risk assessment of living donation. CONCLUSIONS: Living related donation is very well accepted among the Santiago de Cuba's population.

Does the Attitude Toward Organ Donation Change as a Function of the Country Where People Emigrate? Study Between Uruguayan Emigrants to the United States and Spain.

INTRODUCTION: The Uruguayan population is sensitized toward transplantation. However, it has not been studied how this awareness can change when emigrating to different countries. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the attitude toward cadaveric organ donation and living organ donation between the Uruguayan population residing in Florida (United States) and the Uruguayan population residing in Spain. METHOD: Adults born in Uruguay and residing in Florida and Spain were screened. The questionnaire "PCID-DTO Ríos" (donation of cadaveric organs) and "PCID-DVR Ríos" (living renal donation) were used. Subjects were randomly selected according to age and gender stratification. Support from Latin-American immigration associations in Spain and Florida was needed. The survey was anonymized and self-administered. Verbal consent was obtained to collaborate in the study. RESULTS: Because the emigrant population to Spain is far larger than the emigrant population to the United States, a 2:1 proportional sampling was performed (n = 132). Sixty-seven percent of residents in Spain were in favor of organ donation at the time of death compared with 50% among residents in Florida (P = .082), and 100% of residents in Spain were in favor of living renal donation compared with 50% of those living in Florida (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: The attitude toward donation is more favorable among Uruguayan emigrants to Spain than emigrants to the United States, especially in related kidney donation.

Multivariate Analysis of Factors That Influence the Attitude of the Ecuadorian Population Resident in Spain Toward Living-Related Kidney Donation.

BACKGROUND: The Ecuadorian population is the largest Latin-American immigrant group in Spain. Currently, several Ecuadorians have received transplants or are awaiting transplants in Spain. The aim of this work was to analyze the attitude toward living kidney donation among the Ecuadorian population residing in Spain. METHODS: The population screened were born in Ecuador, residing in Spain, and >15 years old, stratified by gender and age, and appraised with the use of the questionnaire on attitude toward organ donation for transplantation "PCID-DVR-Ríos." Support from immigration associations in Spain was used to advise on the location of potential respondents. The completion was anonymous and self-administered. Verbal consent was obtained. Statistics included Student t test, χ2, Fisher exact test, and logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: A total of 461 respondents were included: 80% (n = 367) were in favor of living-related kidney donation (for a relative or close friend). This attitude was associated with psychosocial variables that persisted in the multivariate study: 1) female gender (odds ratio [OR], 3.086; P = .001); 2) considering oneself a potential kidney receptor in the future (OR, 16.949; P = .002); 3) economic incentive in the donation (OR, 100; P = .004); and 4) knowing the attitude of their religion toward transplantation (OR, 32.258; P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: Living-related donation is accepted among the Ecuadorian population residing in Spain and is associated with sociopersonal and religious factors.

Dominicans Resident in Spain and the United States Faced With Deceased Organ Donation.

BACKGROUND: Investigating the attitude of subgroups of populations living in different countries is useful for establishing whether there are differences in opinion in terms of place of residence. The objective of the study was to analyze attitudes toward deceased organ donation in the population from the Dominican Republic who are residing in the southeast of the United States and Spain. METHODS: A sample was taken of residents of the population from the Dominican Republic residing in Florida (the United States) (n = 63) and in Spain (n = 80), which was stratified by age and sex. A validated questionnaire about psychosocial aspects (PCID-DTO Rios) was self-administered and completed anonymously: the χ(2) test, Student t test, and logistic regression analysis were used. RESULTS: The completion rate was 86% (123 respondents of the 143 selected). Of those surveyed, 54% were in favor, 23% were against, and 23% were undecided. Of the residents in Spain (n = 57) 63% (n = 36) were in favor, 12% (n = 7) were against, and 25% (n = 14) were undecided. Of the residents in the United States (n = 66) 46% (n = 30) were in favor, 33% (n = 22) were against, and 21% (n = 14) were undecided (P < .001). The following factors were found to be associated with attitude: 1) level of education [OR = 12.195 (52.631-2.808); P = .001]; 2) concern about the possible mutilation of the body after donation [OR = 11.363 (47.619-2.695; P = .001]; and 3) rejection of cremation or burial of the body after death [OR = 6.134 (21.276-1.763); P = .004]. CONCLUSIONS: Attitude toward the donation of the respondent's own deceased organs after death was more favorable among Dominican residents in Spain compared with those living in the United States.

Attitudes Toward Living Donation in the Bolivian Population Residing in Spain.

INTRODUCTION: Living donation is increasingly necessary to address the shortage of organs for transplantation. Analyzing attitudes and influences toward living donation is essential. This study sought to analyze the attitude toward living donation in the population of Bolivians residing in Spain, and the variables that influence their attitude. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We selected a sample of Bolivians living in Spain. Respondents were selected using a stratified sampling by age and sex. We used a validated questionnaire of psychosocial aspects (the questionnaire of Proyecto Colaborativo Internacional Donante about Living Kidney Donation [Donación de Vivo Renal in Spanish]), which is self-administered and anonymous. The Student t test, χ(2), and Fisher tests, as well as logistic regression analysis, were used to analyze the gathered data. RESULTS: Of all respondents (n = 206), 83% (n = 170) were in favor of living-related donation, and 32% (n = 66) were in favor of living-unrelated donation. The rest, 8.5% (n = 18) were not in favor of living donation and 8.5% (n = 18) were undecided. Acceptance of the living donation was associated with the religious beliefs of the respondent (P = .014), with no worry about the scars that may remain after the donation (P = .016), and with the risk evaluation of living donation (P = .029). On multivariate analysis, the most important variable was the risk associated with living donation (odds ratio, 6.329; 95% CI, 30.303-1.328; P = .021). CONCLUSIONS: Attitudes toward living donation among the Bolivian population residing in Spain is favorable, and represents a group that may be encouraged to become donors.

Involvement of Religious Factors on the Attitude Toward Organs Donation Among the Ecuadorian Population Resident in Spain.

INTRODUCTION: The attitude toward cadaveric organ donation is modulated by different factors, such as religious beliefs. This study sought to analyze the attitude of nationals of Ecuador resident in Spain regarding deceased organ donation depending on their religious beliefs. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A sample of Ecuadorian population resident in Spain (n = 461) stratified by age and sex was selected. We used a validated questionnaire of psychosocial aspects (PCID-DTO Rios), which is self-administered and anonymous. The χ(2) test, Student t test, and logistic regression analysis were used to analyze data. RESULTS: Of the 461 survey respondents, 86% (n = 395) were Catholic, 7% (n = 31) were believers of other faiths, and 7% (n = 35) declared themselves agnostic or atheist. A significant association between the religious beliefs and attitude toward organ donation among those tested can be objectified: 61% of Catholics (n = 241), 42% of believers in non-Catholic doctrines (n = 13), and 49% of atheists/agnostics (n = 17) were in favor of donation (P = .05). Among religious people, 77% of respondents believed their religion was favorable toward donation and 35%, although in favor of organ cadaveric donation, consider their religion contrary to donation (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: The attitude toward cadaveric organ donation among the Ecuadorian population resident in Spain is influenced by religious beliefs and considers what their religion says regarding organ donation.

A multicenter study on attitude toward organ donation in Spain and Latin America between the surgical units of 12 hospitals.

INTRODUCTION: Medical advances and improvements in surgical techniques have transformed transplantation into an ever safer therapeutic option. However, its main limitation is the shortage of available organs. Therefore, it is necessary to join forces to achieve optimal deceased donation and prevent the loss of potential donors. We sought to analyze the acceptance of deceased organ donation (OD) among hospital personnel in surgical units in hospitals in Spain and Latin America. METHOD: A random sample (n = 554) was taken was stratified according to surgical services and job category in 12 hospitals-4 in Spain (n = 294 participants), 5 in Mexico (n = 202), 2 in Cuba (n = 41), and 1 in Costa Rica (n = 17). Attitude was assessed using a questionnaire validated, which was completed anonymously and self-administered. The χ(2) test, Student t test, and a logistic regression analysis were used. RESULTS: Overall, 75% of respondents (n = 417) were in favor of deceased OD and 25% were against it (n = 137). Regarding the respondent's country, there was a favorable attitude among 88% of Cubans, 85% of Mexicans, 82% of Costa Ricans, and 67% of Spaniards (P < .001). The physicians were most in favor of OD with 87% supporting it (n = 149), followed by nurses (n = 182) and ancillary personnel (n = 28) both at 74%, and the health care assistants at 59% (n = 58; P < .001). The following factors affect attitude toward OD: young age (37 ± 10 years; P = .001), being a male (P = .018), having an unstable job situation (P = .009), a belief that one might need a future transplant (P = .036), having a favorable attitude toward living donation (P < .001), being in favor of donating a family member's organs (P < .001), having had a family discussion about OD (P < .001), and a partner's favorable attitude (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: Attitude toward OD among surgeons in hospitals in Spain and Latin America was not as favorable as we might have expected.

Are veterinary students in favour of xenotransplantation? Comparative opinion study in a Brazilian and a Spanish university.

BACKGROUND: The shortage of organs has made it necessary to search for new alternatives such as xenotransplantation. However, the use of animal organs could be opposed by society and the personnel involved in its implementation. This study aimed to analyze the attitude of veterinary degree students in a Brazilian university towards xenotransplantation, to determine factors that affect its acceptance, and to compare the attitudes among a control group of veterinary degree students in a Spanish university. METHODS: Of the 422 students registered for a veterinary course from 2010 to 2011, 374 were surveyed with a questionnaire completion rate of 89%. Attitudes were evaluated using a validated questionnaire that was self-administered administered anonymously. The process was coordinated by an independent health care worker. We applied the student t and the chi-squared-tests for statistical analysis. RESULTS: If xenotransplantation was confirmed as a clinical reality, 90% (n = 338) of Brazilian students would accept the use of a xenotransplanted organ; 94% (n = 350), tissue; and 97% (n = 360), cell xenotransplantation. Attitudes toward xenotransplantation were not determined by the academic year, any psychosocial variable, or attitudes toward deceased human organ donation (P = .167). However, the attitudes would be affected by a belief that the transplanted animal organ would not change anything (P = .001). Interaction with other people was also related to more favorable attitudes (P = .015). Subjects who expressed a more favorable attitude tended to more readily accept cell (P = .000) or tissue xenotransplantation (P = .000). In Spain (control group), the results were similar: 91% (n = 436) would accept a xenotransplantation; 95% (n = 457) tissue; and 97% (n = 467), cell xenotransplantation. Also, this attitude was not affected by the academic year, any psychosocial variable, or attitude toward organ donation (P = .779). CONCLUSION: Both Brazilian and Spanish veterinary students had favorable attitudes toward xenotransplantation.

Multivariate analysis of the factors affecting attitude toward living liver donation among workers in surgical services in Spanish, Mexican, and Cuban hospitals.

INTRODUCTION: Current liver donation rates are insufficient to cover transplant needs. Therefore, it is essential to promote living liver donation (LLD) given the ever decreasing morbidity and mortality in the donor and the improving results in the recipient. LLD is becoming increasingly accepted. However, in the health care system, a percentage of the personnel are not in favor. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the attitude of personnel in surgical services in Spain and Latin-America hospitals toward LLD. MATERIALS AND METHODS: As part of the "International Collaborative Donor Project," a random sample was taken and stratified according to surgical service and job category in 10 hospitals; three in Spain, five in Mexico, and two in Cuba (n = 496). Attitude was evaluated using a validated survey that was completed anonymously and self-administered. RESULTS: Eighty-six percent (n = 425) of respondents were in favor of related living liver donation, and 30% (n = 147) were in favor if it were not related. According to country, 88% of the Mexican respondents were in favor of living liver donation, 85% of the Cubans, and 82% of the Spanish (P > .05). In the multivariate analysis of the variables with most weight affecting attitude toward LLD, the following significant associations were found: (1) a favourable attitude toward living kidney donation (odds ratio [OR] = 91; P < .001); (2) acceptance of a donated living liver if one were needed (OR = 11; P < .001); and (3) family discussion about donation and transplantation (OR = 2.581; P = .037). CONCLUSIONS: Attitude toward related living liver donation was very favorable among hospital personnel in Spanish and Latin American surgical services.

Multivariate analysis to determine the factors affecting the attitudes toward organ donation of healthcare assistants in Spanish and Mexican healthcare centers.

BACKGROUND: Healthcare assistants are an important group of workers who can influence public opinion. Their attitudes toward organ donation may influence public awareness of healthcare matters; negative attitudes toward donation and transplantation could have a negative impact on public attitudes. Our objective was analyze the attitudes of healthcare assistants, in Spanish and Mexican healthcare centers toward organ donation and determine factors affecting them using a multivariate analysis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: As part of the "International Collaborative Donor Project," 32 primary care centers and 4 hospitals were selected in Spain and 5 hospitals in Mexico. A randomized sample of healthcare assistants was stratified according to healthcare services. Attitudes were evaluated using a validated questionnaire of the psychosocial aspects of donation, which was self-completed anonymously by the respondent. Statistical analysis used the chi-square test, Student t test, and logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: Of 532 respondents, 66% in favored donation and 34% were against it or undecided. Upon multivariate analysis, the following variables had the most weight: 1) country of origin (Mexicans were more in favor than Spanish; odds ratio [OR]) = 1.964; P = .014); 2) a partner with a favorable attitude (OR = 2.597; P = .013); 3) not being concerned about possible bodily mutilation after donation (OR = 2.631; P = .006); 4) preference for options apart from burial for handling the body after death (OR = 4.694; P < .001) and 5) accepting an autopsy if one was needed (OR = 3.584; P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: The attitudes of healthcare assistants toward organ donation varied considerably according to the respondent's country of origin. The psycho-social profile of a person with a positive attitude to donation was similar to that described within the general public.