Renal Transplantation: What We Need to Do More? A Perception Based Study in the Medical Colleges of Peshawar

Abstract

Renal transplantation, is the most frequently carried out transplantation procedure globally and is the treatment of choice and improves the quality of life in end-stage renal disease, but there is a deficiency of kidney donors despite its high need. Medical students and personnel play a pivotal role in shaping the patient’s perception regarding a procedure. Objectives: To assess the knowledge and attitudes of medical students regarding renal transplantation in Pakistan. Methods: It was a cross-sectional conducted at public and private medical colleges of Peshawar targeting 4th and final year MBBS students. The study was conducted from December 2019 to October 2020. Results: There were 160 participants, 90 (57 %) males and 69 (43 %) female students. The knowledge about renal transplantation was found high. 24.4 % believed that only family members can donate and 64.4 % believed that there is an age limit for kidney donation. The study participants supported kidney donation (93 %). Similarly, only 34 % favored cadaveric donation over live kidney donation. This attitude was reflected in 38 % of the students disapproving of the thought of donating their own kidneys, as compared to 60 % favoring the idea of donating their kidneys after their death. Conclusions: For medical students, good scores in knowledge mean a better understanding of the transplantation procedures and the needs of the community. However, inadequate utilization of these services for needy patients resulted in a negative attitude. Awareness seminars, and the use of all forms of media to bring the change in perceptions, especially in the medical community.