Education for Organ donation <b>[Abstract in English]</b>

Abstract

Aims: To conduct a revision about the factors associated with the education of organ donation. Source of data: Review of MEDLINE and Lilacs data base over the last ten years (1996-2006). Summary of the findings: There is a positive response from the world population concerning organ donation and transplantation that varies from 52% to 80%. Factors related to a positive attitude toward organ donation include: age (< 50 years old), high level of education, previous experience with donation and transplantation, knowledge of the concept of brain death and blood donor. The majority of people receive information about organ donation through television. Information on individual basis (through campaigns in schools, relatives, friends and health professionals) can promote a greater behaviour alteration. One of the most important factors for the families to be in favour of organ donation is the fact that this was previously discussed with the patient. Conclusions: Despite favourable attitudes toward donation among world population, there is a considerable difference between the number of people on transplantation list and the number of donors. Campaigns that stimulate people to manifest and discuss such decisions with their families suggest an important strategy to minimize this problem. KEY WORDS: EDUCATION, ORGAN DONATION, TRANSPLANTATION.