Analysis of Attitudes on Organ Donations in the Chilean Population

Abstract

Organ transplants are among the surgical techniques hiving a considerable evolution throughout their existence. Despite their recent existence, they have undergone great perfection. This technique began to be performed in the 60’s, but it was consolidate during 80’s only, through the use of cyclosporine. Thanks to this last, the possibility of success was increased considerably, since the risk of rejection was considerably reduced. Transplantation offers significant advantages in terms of improving life expectancy and, particularly, the quality of life of patients when compared to other replacement therapies. In other cases, this technique is the only possibility of survival. In our work we offer a study in the regions of Bío Bío and Valparaíso (Chile), with the intention of knowing the attitude that the population has to organ donations. The donation-transplant process must be based on fundamental bioethical principles, such as those of respect for the dignity, as well as autonomy of individuals, beneficence and non-maleficence and justice, guaranteeing access, equity, effectiveness, and efficiency. An altruistic and supportive society is necessary in order to carry out this process.