Analysis of Factors Influencing Polish Students' Opinions on Euthanasia

Abstract

Due to the continuous development of palliative care and methods of pain relief in the last moments of patients’ lives, we are faced with the question of how long we should take measures to delay inevitable death for, without providing prolonged therapy against the patient’s will. For terminally ill and people experiencing unimaginable suffering, euthanasia is considered as one of the possible options for a dignified farewell. The aim of the study was to determine the views on euthanasia in a group of students from Polish universities. Questionnaire responses were analyzed for 9686 students (79.9% of women and 20.1% of men) aged 18−35 years. Respondents were asked to complete their own questionnaire on demographic data and attitudes toward euthanasia in the case of severe terminal illness or paralysis preventing independent living. Euthanasia was significantly more acceptable among women (85% vs. 75%, p < 0.0001; 69% vs. 62%, p < 0.0001) and non-believers [98% vs. 97% (denominations other than Christian), 84% (other forms of Christianity), 69% (Roman Catholic); p < 0.0001] in every case considered. Religious affiliation was the factor that most influenced attitudes toward euthanasia. Among the other elements influencing attitudes toward euthanasia, residence and field of study were distinguished. Considering the large sample size and specific conclusions, the article should be an important argument in the discussion on euthanasia.

Keywords: death; ethics; euthanasia; public health; students.