Patients' Knowledge and Attitude Toward Biobanks in Eastern Morocco

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Biomedical Research
• Health Systems Integration

Background:

• Integrating biobanks into national health systems requires understanding patient perspectives.
• Limited patient awareness of biobanks necessitates research into attitudes and motivations for participation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore patient knowledge, attitudes, and motivations regarding biobanks in Morocco.
• To identify factors influencing patient willingness to participate in biobanking initiatives.

Main Methods:

• Face-to-face interviews with 1,133 patients in Eastern Morocco.
• Data analysis using SPSS to assess knowledge, attitudes, and willingness to participate.
• Investigated demographic associations and barriers to biobank participation.

Main Results:

• 97% of participants had no prior knowledge of biobanks.
• 80.7% expressed willingness to donate biospecimens and data for biobanking.
• Lack of trust in research and privacy concerns were primary barriers; 75% preferred one-time consent.

Conclusions:

• Despite low awareness, Moroccan patients show significant willingness to participate in biobanking.
• Building trust in biomedical research and ensuring data privacy are crucial for active biobank participation.
• Increased awareness campaigns are needed to promote wider engagement with biobanking.