Ann Transpl
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The shortage of donor organs has been the main obstacle to the expansion of transplantation programs. Recent public opinion survey documented acceptance of the cadaveric kidney procurement in our country but some reluctance to brain death and presumed consent concepts. Recently, the survey was carried out within the medical community to find out whether the level of knowledge and the attitude toward donation has an influence on the slow development of the transplantation program. ⋯ The reasons mentioned for such decision included fear of negative judgment of the local community and problems with deceased relatives. 60% of physicians talking to the family about retrieval would ask for the relatives' consent despite the fact, that the transplantation law in Poland is based on the presumed consent of each individual. The results of the knowledge survey among medical students documented inadequate medical education concerning problems of transplantation. Educational campaign is needed to promote and extend the cadaveric organ transplantation in our country.