Enhancing Transplant Awareness and Acceptance Through Targeting Knowledge Gaps and Common Misconceptions

Abstract

Introduction Organ transplantation is a critical intervention for patients with end-stage organ failure, but misconceptions and knowledge gaps often hinder organ donation. This study evaluates the acceptability and effectiveness of an organ donation campaign focusing on addressing knowledge gaps and misconceptions in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Methods A two-day awareness campaign was conducted in a shopping mall, featuring four stations providing information on various aspects of organ donation. Participants completed a self-administered, researcher-developed, questionnaire before and after the tour. Results Of the 201 participants, 167 completed the questionnaire (83% response rate). The majority (92.9%) reported learning new information and indicated that the knowledge improved their perspective on organ donation. A high percentage (93.5%) felt the campaign answered their questions, with 90.9% deciding to register as organ donors. Conclusion A knowledge-enhancing campaign can effectively improve public perception and promote awareness of organ donation and transplantation. However, the study is limited by its short timeframe, location, and subjective data. Future research should explore the impact of such campaigns on donor registrations and evaluate their effectiveness in different cultural contexts.

Keywords: knowledge gap; misconceptions; organ donation; public awareness campaign; transplant.

Figure 1. Campaign station arrangement: points of questionnaire distribution and collection

Figure 2. (A) Station 1, showing an illustrative three-minute video; (B) Station 2, explaining liver regeneration after donation; (C) Station 3, answering common misconceptions related to brain death, religious views, and the chance of organ failure after donation; (D) Station 4, answering participants' questions

Figure 3. Motivators and deterrents to becoming an organ donor. The data has been represented as percentages (%).

Figure 4. Questionnaire Page 1

Figure 5. Questionnaire Page 2

Figure 6. Questionnaire Page 3