Attitudes of oncologists toward euthanasia in Turkey

Area of Science:

• Medical Ethics
• Oncology
• Palliative Care

Background:

• Intensive global debates surround euthanasia and legislative changes.
• Physician perspectives, especially from oncologists, are vital in the euthanasia dialogue.
• Understanding oncologists' views on euthanasia is crucial, particularly in cancer care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the attitudes of Turkish doctors towards euthanasia within the context of cancer treatment.
• To assess the prevalence of requests for euthanasia and beliefs about its clandestine practice among oncologists in Turkey.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire-based survey was administered to 85 practicing oncologists in Turkey.
• Data was collected from a sample of oncologists out of a total of 800 active practitioners.

Main Results:

• 43.8% of surveyed oncologists did not object to euthanasia.
• 33.7% reported being asked to perform euthanasia, and 41.5% believed it occurs secretly despite being illegal.
• 50.6% of doctors admitted to withdrawing treatment from patients.

Conclusions:

• Oncologists frequently encounter requests and ethical dilemmas concerning euthanasia in cancer care.
• There is a need for continuous education for doctors on patient rights and euthanasia, especially for those managing terminally ill cancer patients.
• Oncologists' experiences can significantly inform and illuminate ongoing euthanasia debates.