Euthanasia: A Controversial Entity Among Students of Karachi

Area of Science:

• Medical Ethics
• Public Health Policy
• Patient Autonomy

Background:

• Understanding student perspectives on end-of-life care is crucial for developing compassionate healthcare practices.
• Euthanasia remains a complex ethical issue with varying societal and professional viewpoints.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess and compare the knowledge and understanding of euthanasia among medical and non-medical students.
• To explore student opinions on end-of-life decisions, including the provision of medical information and treatment.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 456 students from two institutions.
• A questionnaire assessing demographics and opinions on euthanasia scenarios was administered.
• Verbal informed consent was obtained prior to participation.

Main Results:

• Non-medical students (83%) were significantly more in favor of euthanasia than medical students (46%).
• Medical students (84.5%) predominantly supported the consistent provision of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
• Females were more inclined towards maximum medical treatment, while males showed a greater inclination towards euthanasia.

Conclusions:

• Significant disparities exist in the perception of euthanasia between medical and non-medical student populations.
• Educational interventions may be needed to address differing ethical viewpoints on end-of-life care.
• Future research should explore the factors influencing these diverse perspectives on euthanasia.