Attitudes towards biosample donation in andrology patients

Area of Science:

• Medical research
• Andrology
• Biobanking

Background:

• Clinical left-over biosamples are crucial for medical research.
• Understanding patient attitudes towards biosample donation is essential for biobanking initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the willingness of andrology patients to donate biosamples for research.
• To identify factors associated with willingness and unwillingness to donate biosamples.

Main Methods:

• A survey was conducted among 866 andrology patients in Shanghai, China.
• Data collection occurred between May 2010 and December 2010.
• Statistical analysis identified factors influencing donation decisions.

Main Results:

• 61.4% of patients were willing to donate biosamples, while 32.0% refused.
• Low education and infertility were associated with unwillingness to donate.
• Younger age groups (18-29, 30-44) and cancer patients showed higher willingness.
• Most patients desired control over research authorization and access to individual results.
• Willingness to donate semen (44.1%) and testis (41.3%) was less than half among willing respondents.

Conclusions:

• Andrology patients exhibit a low willingness to donate biosamples, particularly infertile patients.
• Patient demographics and specific conditions significantly influence donation attitudes.
• Further research is needed to understand and address the barriers to biosample donation in this population.