Religious attitudes regarding organ donation.

This study of seminary students, religious leaders, and hospital chaplains illustrates the importance of educating clergy about organ donation. Religious objections are often cited as a reason for refusal to give consent for donation. Results of this study show that most clergy are supportive of organ donation. However, the survey pointed out some misunderstanding of the concept of brain death. Thus, although the clergy are supportive and influential, they tend not to receive medical information that is key to the donation process. Further education specifically focused on religious leaders is needed.