Abstract
Background & objectives Numerous barriers like lack of awareness, fear of misuse and sociocultural beliefs contribute towards low rates of organ donation. In 2019, India had a donation rate of only 0.52 per million. Hence, this study was undertaken to determine the awareness levels and perceptions about organ donation among patient attendants in a tertiary-care hospital in South India. Methods This cross-sectional study, 'passing on the torch of life', with a sample size of 110 was conducted in a tertiary care hospital from June to October 2022. Beds across were selected by simple random sampling and the attendants of patients were interviewed using a face-validated structured interview schedule. Data was analysed using SPSS v.20 using the independent sample t test and ANOVA. Results The majority of the participants were Hindus (62%), married (68%), living in urban areas (62%) and gainfully employed (60%). The mean awareness score was 7.86±2.64 (out of 13). About 70 per cent of the participants were regarded to have adequate knowledge. The mean perception score was 67±9.41 (out of 86). A total of 95 per cent of the participants supported organ donation, however only 51 per cent were willing to donate. Males, participants with higher education and income and those residing in urban areas had significantly higher awareness scores (P<0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that higher education levels was a predictor of increased awareness (P=0.036). Interpretation & conclusions The majority of participants had adequate awareness, positive perceptions and supported organ donation, however, only 51 per cent were willing to donate their organs. Education levels was a significant predictor of awareness levels. A further qualitative study is recommended to explore the reasons behind the unwillingness to donate, despite strong support for organ donation.