This global review looked at thirty-three different studies to understand why people hesitate to donate organs. Many individuals simply do not know the laws or have wrong ideas about the process. A large number of families worry that donating organs will harm the loved one who died. These fears and misunderstandings create a big gap between wanting to help and actually doing it.
Educational programs can change this picture. When people learn the truth, their knowledge improves greatly. Willingness to sign up as a donor also goes up significantly after learning the facts. Healthcare workers who carry donor cards show they support the cause, which helps build trust.
However, teaching people is not enough on its own. The healthcare system must also change to remove practical and financial burdens. A combined approach that includes culturally appropriate teaching and system fixes works best. This strategy bridges the gap between wanting to donate and taking action to save lives.