The Role of Secondary School Teachers in Promoting Organ and Tissue Donation
Abstract:
Introduction: At present, we are experiencing a situation of shortage of organs to be transplanted in parallel with an important development in medical sciences. In Morocco, there is approximately one donor per million inhabitants, this rate is very low compared to the world average and compared to neighboring countries. This issue engages many medical, socio-economic, ethical, and legal discussions on the subject of organ donation, particularly in deceased persons.
Material and Methods: This is a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional observational study carried out with secondary school teachers. We distributed 300 questionnaires to colleges and high schools in the Beni Mellal region (Morocco) and we received a response rate of about 77% of the participants. A pre-established questionnaire consisting of four main themes, socio-demographic information, knowledge, attitudes, and degree of participation of teachers in the promotion of organ donation. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 21 software.
Results: The distribution of teachers surveyed was marked by a male predominance with a sex ratio of 3M/1F. The average age of our population was 33.86 years. Our results showed that 78% of participating teachers believed that organ transplantation is an effective therapeutic alternative and that 69% agreed to donate their organs after death. Solidarity was the main reason for supporting organ donation. 52% of teachers have already talked about organs with their students. About 69% believed that the role of the teacher is paramount in promoting organ and tissue donation.
Discussion: The teacher constituted over time one of the pioneers in the framework of civil society. It is the force that animates the education system worldwide, They shape, inspire, and encourage a new generation of learners and guide them to have a positive impact on their attitudes and practices within civil society. The promotion of organ and blood donation is one of the noble missions of teachers, so raising awareness through periodic campaigns can improve the level of awareness and empower these teachers and through them their students.
Conclusion: If the socio-economic level, the level of studies, and the religion seem to be important criteria, they are only determining factors among others. Raising awareness among middle and high school students through a national educational program is one of the most effective strategies to address this organ shortage.
