Black American attitudes toward organ donation and transplantation

One hundred eleven black Americans were surveyed on various issues related to organ donation. The majority of respondents were indecisive on key issues, suggesting a lack of sufficient knowledge of and exposure to the many aspects of this procedure. Many of the individuals surveyed were familiar with the urgent need for transplantable organs, although most were unaware of the even more critical need for transplantable organs from the black population.Less than one third of the respondents stated that they would either be willing to donate their own organs or those of a relative. Even fewer would be willing to donate the organs of a child or an incompetent.The study group favored making donated organs available to individuals with the greatest need rather than reserving them for members of specific groups. Most indicated they would be willing to "share" organs donated by US citizens with noncitizens. The overwhelming majority objected to the commercialization of organs. In selecting recipients for organs, respondents accorded the highest priority to medical need and to those recipients who have spent the greatest time on waiting lists. Ability to pay was rejected as an appropriate criterion.The results of this survey made clear the need for educating blacks on issues related to organ donation and to improve channels of communication between the transplant community and the black population.