Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perceptions of Organ Donation among Medical and Nonmedical University Students in Lebanon: A Cross- Sectional Study

Background: Organ transplantation is a life-saving treatment for patients with end-stage organ failure; however, the global shortage of donor organs remains a major challenge. In Lebanon, organ donation rates remain low, and public awareness and attitudes toward organ donation may play an important role in influencing donation practices. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and willingness toward organ donation among university students in Lebanon, by comparing findings between medical and non-medical students. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-administered online questionnaire distributed to university students across several Lebanese institutions during the 2025–2026 academic year. The survey assessed socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of organ donation and transplantation, attitudes and perceptions, willingness to donate, and perceived motivations and barriers. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to compare responses between the two groups, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: A total of 252 students participated, including both medical and non-medical students. Overall awareness of organ donation was high, with 89.5% of medical students and 79.0% of non-medical students reporting having heard about organ donation. Medical students demonstrated significantly higher knowledge regarding brain death, transplantation procedures, and legal aspects of organ donation. Willingness to donate organs in the future was similar in both groups (45.1% among medical students and 46.2% among non-medical students). The most common motivation for donation was the desire to save lives. Major barriers included distrust in the healthcare system, fear of body disfigurement, and lack of information. Conclusion: Lebanese university students generally display favorable attitudes toward organ donation, but gaps remain in detailed knowledge and practical engagement with the donation system. Educational initiatives and public awareness campaigns may help address misconceptions and improve organ donation rates in Lebanon.