Abstract

Background: Organ transplantation has transformed the management of endstage organ failure, yet the number of available organs in India remains far below the clinical demand. There continues to be a mismatch between increasing public awareness and the relatively low rate of actual organ donation, which may be influenced by gaps in knowledge, sociocultural beliefs, and mistrust in the system. Objectives: To evaluate awareness, knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to organ donation among adult patients attending a tertiary care hospital in Kelambakkam, Tamil Nadu, and to identify determinants of willingness to donate organs. Methods: A descriptive, hospital-based cross-sectional study was carried out among 370 adults attending the outpatient, inpatient, and emergency services of Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute (CHRI). Information was obtained using a structured, pre-validated questionnaire. Data were summarised using descriptive statistics, and associations were examined using the Chi-square test, with p < 0.05 taken as statistically significant. Results: Almost all participants (98.9%) had heard of organ donation, and 77.7% were aware of the concept of brain death. However, only 22.3% knew about the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act. Although most respondents expressed favourable attitudes towards organ donation, only 62.9% reported being willing to register as organ donors in future. Actual engagement in donation-related practices was low; 2.9% had formally registered as organ donors and 3.4% had discussed organ donation with family members. Misconceptions, concerns about misuse of organs, and poor understanding of legal procedures were commonly cited barriers. Conclusion: The study highlights a wide gap between general awareness and actual practice regarding organ donation in this setting. Focused educational strategies that emphasise legal aspects, promote open family discussions, and strengthen trust in healthcare services are required to enhance organ donation rates in this region.

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