Publication:

A community based study on awareness of organ donation among young adults in rural areas of Puducherry

Background The objective of the study was to determine the knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding organ donation in a selected rural adult population in Pondicherry.

Methods Simple random sampling was used to generate a sample of 100 in rural service areas of IGMC&RI. Face to face interview was conducted based on a pre-tested questionnaire in selected rural areas of Pondicherry. Data was analysed using SPSS v.22 and associations were tested using the Pearson's Chi square test.

Results 66% of the participants in this survey had adequate knowledge score for organ donation. Knowledge about organ donation was significantly associated with employment status (p=0.025). Television emerged as the major source of information. Only 19% had donated an organ. All (19%) were volunteers who have donated blood.

Conclusions Better knowledge may ultimately translate into the act of donation. Effective measures should be taken to educate people with relevant information with the involvement of media and doctors.