Knowledge, Attitudes, and Willingness Toward Organ Donation Among High School Students and Teachers in the West Bank, Palestine: A Cross‐Sectional Study

TL;DR

This study explores high school students and teachers in Palestine's understanding and willingness to donate organs, finding gaps that suggest a need for better education and trust-building.

Contribution

The study provides new insights into organ donation perceptions among youth and educators in the West Bank, highlighting cultural and demographic influences.

Findings

Students had higher knowledge scores than teachers regarding organ donation.

Willingness to donate organs or register as donors was low among both students and teachers.

Gender and urban residence were significant factors influencing knowledge and attitudes toward organ donation.

Abstract

Organ donation is a vital component of modern healthcare, yet its acceptance varies across populations. Understanding perceptions among future generations and educators is crucial for effective awareness initiatives. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and willingness regarding organ donation among high school students and teachers in the West Bank, Palestine.

A cross‐sectional study was conducted among 508 participants (370 high school students and 138 teachers) between March and May 2025. Data were collected via a structured online questionnaire following ethical approval. Electronic informed consent was obtained, and anonymity was maintained. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, independent‐samples t‐tests, and one‐way analysis of variance.

Participants reported moderate mean scores for attitudes (24.16 ± 7.995) and knowledge (6.87 ± 1.598). Students had significantly higher mean knowledge scores than teachers (7.01 vs. 6.51; p = 0.004). Willingness to donate to strangers (students: 20.0%, teachers: 12.3%) or register at a donation center (students: 28.4%, teachers: 39.1%) was low. Among students, gender was significantly associated with knowledge (p < 0.001) and attitudes (p = 0.02). Among teachers, urban residence was associated with knowledge (p = 0.002) and attitudes (p = 0.03). Key influencing factors included family support, religious guidance, and low trust in the healthcare system.

This study reveals a significant gap between knowledge, attitudes, and willingness to donate organs. Culturally tailored educational programs, religious engagement, and enhanced trust in the healthcare system are essential to promote organ donation in Palestine.