Introduction
More than half of the national transplant waiting list is made up of multicultural populations.
Although it is possible for a candidate to match a donor from another racial or ethnic group, transplant success rates increase when organs are matched between members of the same ethnic background.
Consider these statistics from the National MOTTEP and the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network
More than 83,000 persons are currently on the national transplant waiting list.
16 people die each day waiting for a life-saving organ transplant.
A disproportionate number of people who are on waiting lists and dying-approximately 50%-are racial/ethnic minorities
Minority donors account for only about 25% of the available donor pool.
Purpose
The research project addresses the following questions:
1) What are the factors that contribute to fewer minorities participating in organ donation?
2) How can health educators increase minority donation awareness?
3) What implications do these results have for minorities needing an organ donation?
Methods
2,000 needs assessments were distributed to various classes and offices on the Texas A&M University-Commerce campus.
All participants were requested to complete the 5 question anonymous survey and return them to the facilitator.
Following analysis of the results
A month long education and awareness campaign that delivered a culturally sensitive message through ethnically similar messengers were given on campus at various student meetings and events.
Distributed brochures and other information about organ/tissue donation.
Utilized radio PSA, college newspaper, sandwich boards, flyers, & incentive pins.
Results
1,200 non organ donors
80% due to lack of knowledge
15% due to scared/confidentiality
5% due to religion/values
After campaign, 600 newly signed donor cards, with 30% being minorities.
Conclusion
Sixty percent of the people surveyed were non organ donors.
After the informational campaign, 50% signed donation cards.
Students decided for future purposes, would campaign in more locations, utilize campus TV informational ads, table at multi-cultural festival.
The students began to develop a program called Lion Savers, which would also incorporate blood donations, drunk driving contracts, and STD awareness.