Attitudes towards euthanasia and assisted suicide among Sudanese doctors

Abstract

An anonymous questionnaire was used to survey the attitudes of 382 doctors towards euthanasia and assisted suicide at Khartoum’s two main hospitals. Of the 382, 248 responded [65% response rate]. The mean age was 38 +/- 13.5 years; male: female ratio was 130: 118; 66% were house staff, 34% specialists; 92% Muslim, 8% Christian. The vast majority [85%] strongly opposed the practices, while 15% thought they should be performed only in certain situations, subject to strict safeguards. Reasons given for opposition included religious beliefs, inconsistency with the doctor’s role, presence of subtle pressures on patients, and potential for misuse among the physically and intellectually handicapped.