Living Kidney Donation among Hispanics: A Qualitative Examination of Barriers and Opportunities

Abstract

Context Despite their increasing need for kidneys and low nonliving donation rates, minimal research has been conducted to ascertain the perceptions of Hispanic Americans about living organ donation and the process of asking for such a donation. Objective To examine perceptions of Hispanics regarding barriers to and benefits of living donation as well as the process of asking someone to be a living donor. Design A qualitative study consisting of 10 focus groups conducted in 2 series. Participants Adult Spanish-language-dominant Hispanic members of the general population of Tucson, Arizona. Results The main barriers to living organ donation were a lack of knowledge or information and fear of the donation process. Knowing that one has helped save or improve another's life was the central benefit. Most participants reported being willing to ask a relative to be a living donor if they were ever in need. Two main responses typified these individuals: no concern about asking because of a strong desire to fight for one's health and for one's family, or asking despite difficulties and concerns about the process. A significant minority of participants indicated they would not ask for a donation, because of either a desire to avoid harming others or the expectation that a relative would initiate an offer.