Perspectives of Medical Students on Voluntary Body Donation: A Questionnaire-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Voluntary Body Donation (VBD) plays a vital role in medical education and research. However, willingness to donate is influenced by socio-cultural, religious, and educational factors. This study evaluates medical students’ knowledge, attitudes, and willingness toward VBD in India and compares the findings with global trends.
Objectives: 1. To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and willingness of medical students toward Voluntary Body Donation (VBD) in the Indian context. 2. To identify factors influencing medical students’ willingness to donate their bodies for medical education and research. 3. To evaluate the role of religious beliefs, cultural influences, and personal ethics in shaping students' perspectives on VBD. 4. To compare the findings with existing global literature on medical students' perspectives on body donation. 5. To explore potential strategies to improve awareness and acceptance of VBD among medical students in India.
Methods: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted among medical students in Assam, India. Data were collected on demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and willingness to donate. Statistical analysis, including chi-square tests, was performed to assess associations between key variables.
Results: A total of 456 medical students participated in the study, providing insights into their knowledge, attitudes, and willingness toward Voluntary Body Donation (VBD). The findings reveal significant associations between willingness to donate and factors such as gender, religious background, and knowledge levels, highlighting key influences on students' perspectives. A significant association was observed (p = 0.0207), with female students showing higher willingness to donate. Religious background had a strong impact (p = 0.00009), with higher opposition among Christians, Buddhists, and Muslims. No significant correlation was found (p = 0.0877), suggesting that cultural and emotional factors outweigh knowledge in decision-making.
Conclusion: Knowledge alone is insufficient to drive VBD decisions. Integrating culturally sensitive discussions on ethical and religious aspects of donation in medical curricula is essential. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to assess evolving attitudes toward VBD among medical students.