Organ donation and transplant: The Islamic perspective

Area of Science:

• Medical Ethics
• Islamic Studies
• Transplantation Science

Background:

• Organ donation and transplantation face lower acceptance rates among Muslims in Western countries.
• Migration trends are increasing the Muslim population in Western nations.
• Existing studies indicate negative attitudes towards organ donation among Muslims compared to other religious groups.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review major Sunni and Shia scholarly opinions on organ donation and transplantation.
• To summarize Islamic rulings on the neurological determination of death.
• To identify barriers to organ donation and transplantation within the Muslim community.

Main Methods:

• Conducted a comprehensive literature review.
• Synthesized opinions from major Islamic scholars and bodies.
• Analyzed factors influencing Muslim perspectives on organ donation.

Main Results:

• Key barriers include lack of information, healthcare system mistrust, family influence, body sanctity concerns, and unclear religious rulings.
• Opinions of religious leaders significantly impact community attitudes.
• Divergent views exist regarding the neurological determination of death in Islamic jurisprudence.

Conclusions:

• Addressing specific concerns and partnering with religious leaders can foster positive attitudes toward organ donation among Muslims.
• Clearer communication of Islamic perspectives on organ donation is crucial.
• Overcoming barriers can improve equitable access to transplantation for Muslim patients.