CULTURALAND RELIGIOUS PERCEPTIONS AS BARRIERS TO AUTOPSY ACCEPTANCE: EVIDENCE FROM SOUTHERN RAJASTHAN

Objective: This study investigates the cultural and religious perceptions of family members of the deceased regarding medico-legal autopsies in Southern Rajasthan, India, and identifies specific barriers to acceptance. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at R.N.T. Medical College and Maharana Bhupal Hospital, Udaipur, involving 278 family members of deceased individuals who underwent medico-legal autopsy. Astructured questionnaire assessed perceptions using a 5-point Likert scale, covering religious objections, beliefs about bodily integrity, perceived benefits, and emotional impact. Results: Religious concerns were prevalent, with 35.25% of respondents believing autopsies contradict their religious beliefs (3.24% strongly agreed, 32.01% agreed). Nearly half (44.96%) agreed that the deceased's body should not be tampered with. A significant portion (41.09%) believed autopsies offer no benefit to the living, while 40.65% felt the procedure causes additional suffering to bereaved families. Hindu participants (N=248) showed slightly higher acceptance (mean perception score: 9.85±1.54) compared to Muslim participants (N=30, mean: 9.36±1.46, p=0.04). Conclusion: Cultural and religious perceptions represent significant barriers to autopsy acceptance in Southern Rajasthan. Targeted interventions addressing these specific concerns through culturally sensitive communication, engagement with religious leaders, and public education campaigns are essential for improving cooperation with medico-legal investigations.