[The current panorama of euthanasia in Spain]

Area of Science:

• Medical Ethics
• End-of-Life Care

Context:

• Advances in medical technology prolong life for terminally ill patients.
• Patient autonomy in treatment decisions, including cessation, is increasingly discussed.
• Ethical considerations surrounding passive and active euthanasia are critical in terminal care.

Purpose:

• To investigate public and professional opinions on passive and active euthanasia in terminal patients.
• To survey attitudes towards the omission or cessation of life-prolonging treatments.

Summary:

• A survey of 1,109 individuals (healthcare professionals, students, retirees) in Madrid explored views on end-of-life treatments.
• 70% agreed with passive euthanasia (cessation of life-prolonging drugs) in terminal patients.
• 55% opposed active euthanasia, while 34% agreed under certain circumstances.

Impact:

• Findings reveal significant differences in opinions based on age, religious beliefs, and political thought.
• This research contributes to the ongoing debate on medical ethics and patient rights in end-of-life care.
• Results provide valuable insights for healthcare policy and practice concerning terminal patient management.