Knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of organ donation among medical university students in Armenia: a...

Organ donation is essential for patients with end-stage organ failure, yet transplantation systems remain limited by organ shortages, public awareness, ethical concerns, and trust in healthcare systems.

This study aimed to assess knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of organ donation among medical university students in Armenia.

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 700 medical university students in Armenia during the 2025-2026 academic year. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire covering demographics, knowledge, attitudes and beliefs, perceptions, and donation-related practices. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27 and presented as frequencies, percentages, and mean ± standard deviation.

The mean age of participants was 21.55 ± 2.279 years, and 66.9% were female. Most students had heard about organ donation in Armenia (76.9%) and knew that transplantation is performed in the country (79.0%). Although 89.9% knew about brain death, only 64.4% considered it irreversible death. Knowledge of legal and organizational aspects was limited: 32.3% knew that organ donation after brain death is legal, 29.4% knew about the organ donation registry, and 19.1% knew where or how donation is performed. Only 1.7% had an organ donation card, while 58.1% agreed to donate their organs after death.

Medical university students in Armenia generally show positive perceptions toward organ donation; however, critical knowledge gaps persist regarding legal and organizational aspects, donor registration remains exceptionally low. Targeted education, public awareness, and transparent communication are needed.