[Attitudes towards active euthanasia and its legislation in Spain].

Area of Science:

• Medical Ethics
• Public Health Policy
• Sociology of Medicine

Context:

• Modern healthcare systems balance medical advancement with patient rights.
• Debates surrounding the legalization of euthanasia are ongoing to prevent potential abuses.
• Patient welfare and rights are critical considerations in end-of-life care discussions.

Purpose:

• To investigate public opinions and attitudes regarding the legalization of active euthanasia for terminally ill patients.
• To assess the level of agreement with legislative proposals for active euthanasia.
• To identify demographic factors influencing views on euthanasia legislation.

Summary:

• An anonymous survey of 1,109 individuals (hospital staff, students, retired persons) in Madrid explored attitudes toward active euthanasia legislation.
• 63% of respondents agreed, in determined circumstances or totally, with legislating active euthanasia for terminally ill patients.
• Significant differences in opinions were noted based on age, sex, marital status, religion, and political ideology (p < 0.05).

Impact:

• Findings contribute to the ongoing discourse on end-of-life care and patient autonomy.
• The study highlights demographic variations in public acceptance of euthanasia.
• Results suggest a nuanced public stance on euthanasia legislation, requiring further investigation into contributing factors.