Evaluation of the Knowledge and Opinions of Academicians and Students of the Faculties of Medicine, Nursing, Theology, and Law on Organ Donation: A Cross-Sectional Study in Turkey

AbstractIntroduction: Despite increased awareness efforts, many countries continue to face critical challenges in organ donation registration rates.Academicians and students from medical, nursing, theology, and law faculties are in pivotal positions to shape societal perceptions and practicesrelated to organ donation, yet their own knowledge and attitudes remain under-investigated.Objectives: This study aims to evaluate and compare the knowledge, attitudes, and opinions of academicians and final-year students from thefaculties of medicine, nursing, theology, and law.Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between September 2021 and August 2022 at the University, involving 481participants (155 academicians and 326 students). Data were collected using a researcher-developed online questionnaire addressing sociodemographic variables, knowledge, and attitudes toward medical, religious, ethical, and legal aspects of organ donation.Results: While 80% of participants had previously received information about organ donation, only 20.6% of academicians and 7.4% ofstudents were officially registered as donors. Misunderstandings about brain death, concerns regarding bodily integrity, and religious uncertaintieswere more prevalent among theology participants. Altruism was the most frequently cited reason for willingness to donate, but this intention oftenfailed to translate into action.Conclusion: There exists a pronounced gap between awareness and behavior concerning organ donation. Targeted educational interventions—especially within theology and law faculties—must go beyond knowledge transmission and actively address ethical reasoning, cultural values, andbehavioral intent. Collaborative and interdisciplinary education involving health professionals, theologians, and legal experts is crucial to fosteringinformed and proactive attitudes.Keywords: Organ donation; medicine; nursing; theology; law; knowledge