Public Attitudes toward Organ Donation, Autopsy and Anatomic Dissection-A Prospective Study

This study was aimed to know the people's reactions to techniques involving the dead body by comparing their feelings toward organ donation, autopsy and anatomic dissection. 92% reported acceptance of an autopsy for themselves and 85% for a close relative. 60% were willing to donate their own organs and 40% to donate the organs of a family member, 15% accepted donation of their whole body for dissection. Nearly all who accepted dissection willing to donate their organs and to be autopsied; almost all who were willing to donate their organs also accepted autopsy. About 70% felt some discomfort at the thought of autopsy and organ donation. Woman seemed more sensitive towards operation on the dead body than men.This study was conducted on the beliefs, attitudes of people towards organ donation, anatomic dissection and autopsy in the region of Assam.