Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Regarding Organ Donation and Transplantation among Armed Forces Community in Ernakulum District

Abstract Background: Organ donation remains a critical public health challenge in India, with a persistent gap between demand and availability of donor organs despite progressive legislation and expanding transplant infrastructure. Armed forces communities represent a disciplined and relatively well-educated population with the potential to positively influence organ donation practices, yet evidence on their knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) remains limited. This study was conducted to assess the KAP regarding organ donation and transplantation among the Armed Forces community in Ernakulam district, Kerala, and to identify determinants influencing willingness to donate organs. Materials and Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from May to August 2025 in an Armed Forces setting in Ernakulam district. Using cluster sampling, 876 adult participants comprising serving personnel and family members were enrolled. Data were collected using a pretested, semi-structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic variables and KAP domains. Scores were categorized using the 75 th percentile cutoff. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression. Results: The mean age of participants was 30.6 ± 7.6 years, with males constituting 67.4%. Although 84.8% had heard of organ donation, only 26.4% demonstrated good knowledge, 32.2% had a positive attitude, and 35.6% expressed willingness to donate. Formal registration for organ donation was low (6.7%). Younger age, female gender, higher education, good knowledge, and positive attitude were independent predictors of willingness to donate organs. Conclusion: Despite high awareness, significant gaps exist in knowledge depth and actual organ donation practices within the armed forces community. Targeted institutional awareness programmes and simplified registration mechanisms are recommended to inculcate positive attitudes into sustained donation practices.