Welsh citizens in south-eastern Spain: a study of attitude toward organ donation

The increase in the British population, including Welsh citizens, in the south-east of Spain is generating a new social and healthcare reality that is affecting the world of transplantation.

The objectives of this study were as follows: (1) to determine the attitude of the local population originating from Wales toward the donation of their own organs, and (2) to analyze the factors that determine this attitude.

A random sample (n=126) was selected from the population in Murcia originating from Wales (November 2005-March 2006). Attitudes were evaluated using a validated questionnaire. A control group comprised the autochthonous population (n=2000). The sample was stratified according to age, gender, and geographical location.

In this study 76% (n=96) had favorable attitudes toward donation, 6% (n=8) were against, and the remainder 18% (n=22) were not sure. Attitudes were more favorable than among the Spanish control group (76% vs 63%; P=.045). The following variables were associated with this attitude: (1) knowledge of the concept of brain death (P<.001); (2) having spoken within the family about the subject (P=.005); (3) attitude toward the donation of a family member's organs (P<.001); (4) knowing the attitude of one's religion toward donation (P=.033); and (5) attitude of one's partner toward donation (P<.001).

Welsh citizens who are residents in south-eastern Spain have attitudes toward organ donation that are more favorable than those of the native Spanish population. They seem to be determined by knowing the concept of brain death and positive attitudes of one's family.