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BACKGROUND: The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases in Saudi Arabia has heightened the need for organ transplantation; however, the donor pool remains insufficient. This study explored awareness and willingness towards organ donation among Riyadh residents and examined the sociodemographic factors influencing these attitudes. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey using convenience sampling was conducted among adults in Riyadh. The survey assessed demographic characteristics, awareness, willingness to donate, and sociodemographic factors. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics and logistic regression. RESULTS: Among the 645 respondents, 56.4% were willing to donate organs, with females showing a higher propensity than males (OR 2.9, 95% CI 1.7-5.1, p < 0.001). Awareness of organ donation centers was linked to increased willingness to donate (OR 1.5, 95% CI 1.1-2.5, p < 0.001). Higher educational level was strongly associated with donor registration (OR 36.8, 95% CI 14.7-91.9, p < 0.001). Despite their high willingness, only 9.5% were registered as donors, highlighting the gap between intention and action. CONCLUSIONS: Riyadh residents showed a significant willingness to donate organs, influenced by gender, education, and awareness. Low registration rates suggest barriers such as religious beliefs and lack of information. Targeted educational campaigns and policy evaluations, including an opt-out system, are recommended to enhance registration rates.
RESUMO
Background Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy characterized by visual field loss and potentially irreversible blindness, which poses a significant global health challenge. The Maldives, renowned for its unique geography and vibrant culture, faces unique challenges in healthcare access and delivery due to its scattered islands. Limited access to specialized healthcare services, coupled with cultural and socioeconomic factors, can contribute to disparities in glaucoma awareness and early detection. Understanding glaucoma awareness is paramount due to its potential impact on public health and the healthcare system. The aim of this study is to assess the awareness and knowledge about glaucoma among the citizens of Addu City, Maldives. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 390 residents of Addu City, Maldives. The online survey questionnaire assessed demographic information, knowledge and awareness of glaucoma, and risk factors associated with the disease. Results The majority of participants (66.9%) had never heard of glaucoma. Among those who had heard of glaucoma, only 22.6% knew that it could cause irreversible blindness. Logistic regression analysis and multivariate analysis showed that age, gender, socioeconomic status, and education level were significantly associated with awareness and knowledge of glaucoma (p<0.05). Conclusion Findings suggest a high likelihood of low awareness and knowledge of glaucoma among residents of Addu City, Maldives. The study highlights the urgent need for policymakers, program implementers, and the health sector to conduct awareness programs in the community and provide facilities for annual eye examinations, as well as to organize systematic screening plans for glaucoma across the Maldives.
