Are Senegalese Immigrants Residing in Spain in Favor of Organ Donation?

ABSTRACT

The Senegalese population is an emerging group in Europe. The number of foreign residents in Spain, France, and Italy has increased significantly. However, there are no studies that analyze their awareness of organ donation and transplantation. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the attitude toward organ donation among the population born in Senegal residing in Spain. METHODS: The study population was born in Senegal and resides in Spain. A sample of the population older than 15 years was obtained randomly and stratified by age and sex according to census data and immigrant support associations. Attitude was assessed using a validated questionnaire on psychosocial aspects toward organ donation (PCID-DTO Rios). A random selection of people to be surveyed was carried out. Assistance from African immigration support associations in Spain was needed to advise on the location of potential respondents. The survey was self-administered and completed anonymously. RESULTS: A sample of 295 respondents was included in the study. Attitude toward deceased donation was favorable in 37% (n = 109) of respondents; 35% (n = 104) were against and 28% (n = 82) were undecided. Several variables were associated with having a more favorable attitude (P < .05) sex, having discussed donation with the family, not being concerned about the possible mutilation of the body after donation, the respondent's religion, and knowledge of one's partner's attitude in favor of organ donation. CONCLUSIONS: The attitude toward organ donation among the population born in Senegal and residing in Spain is unfavorable, and it is associated with psychosocial factors.