Reflections by the families of organ donors in Japan

The number of kidney grafts in Japan is remarkably small compared to that in Europe and America. We conducted a questionnaire survey to donor families in order to examine problems surrounding kidney grafts, from their viewpoints. Thirty one families of post-mortem kidney donors responded and the majority perceived the donation positively. The survey also revealed that in most cases, donation was decided by the family without knowing the patient's wishes, families who made organ donations were apprehensive about Japanese society being critical of organ donations, and some families later regretted their decision of organ donation. In Japanese society, organ donation continues to face some resistance. It is important that medical professionals concerned with organ grafts understand with compassion the feelings of donor families, and make a greater effort in developing public understanding and support for organ grafts.