A STUDY TO ASSESS THE KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND AWARENESS OF ORGAN DONATION AMONG THE PREFINAL YEAR STUDENTS OF G.R. MEDICAL COLLEGE, GWALIOR (M.P.)

Introduction: Despite the pressing need for organs in India, where organ failure causes nearly one lakh deaths annually, the country faces a severe shortage of available organs, with only 905 deceased donors in 2017 against a demand for approximately 5 lakh organs. Material and Methods: A Cross-sectional study was carried out from July to September 2023 and included 150 students using a pre-structured, pre-designed and validated questionnaire. Percentages were calculated and appropriate statistical tests were applied. Results: In the present study, 93.33% students were aware of the concept of word of organ donation, and showing the maximum awareness regarding kidneys (85.33%) as an organ used for organ donation. Only (41.33%) knew about the organ donation policy of college. Television [105 (70%)] and books [92 (61%)] were the predominant sources of information. 96 (64%) of students strongly agreed that organ donation should be encouraged, but only 36 (24%) were willing to take a pledge for organ donation. Conclusion: The ndings highlighted the need for targeted educational interventions to enhance the knowledge and willingness of medical students regarding organ donation.