Background : Living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) is recognized as a vital option for patients with end-stage liver disease, addressing the shortage of organs and the high mortality associated with waiting times. This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and willingness to donate organs among the population of Kashan.

Methods : The study included 1,026 participants from Kashan, Iran. A 20-item questionnaire was used to evaluate participants’ knowledge (10 items, scored out of 10), attitudes (10 items, scored out of 10), and willingness to undergo LDLT (yes/no). The study examined the relationship between knowledge and attitudes regarding LDLT and the willingness to donate. A logistic regression model was applied to identify which factors (knowledge or attitudes) influenced the willingness to donate, adjusting for age, gender, and education level.

Results : The questionnaire had a response rate of 63.3%. Participants had an average knowledge score of 2.23 ± 1.7, and the mean attitude score was 3.4 ± 2.2. Notably, 76.3% of participants were not willing to donate. Regression analysis indicated that knowledge is an independent factor that positively influences willingness to donate, with an odds ratio of 1.6 (confidence interval 1.1-5.2). Attitudes also emerged as a significant independent determinant, with an odds ratio of 2.9 (confidence interval 1.8-6.9).

Conclusions : The findings suggest that both knowledge and attitudes significantly impact the willingness to donate, regardless of age, gender, or education level. The healthcare system should focus on enhancing these aspects to reduce mortality associated with waiting lists.