Teo T T, Hossain M M, Zinna S, Liew Y P, Tan J
University of Brunei, and Department of Renal Medicine, RIPAS Hospital, Brunei, Darussalam.
Transplant Proc. 2011 Dec;43(10):3599-603. doi: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2011.09.063.
Brunei Darussalam is a small Muslim country with a high prevalence and incidence of kidney disease. At present, there is no local transplant program for patients on the renal replacement therapy program. In order to assess feasibility of a local transplant program, we decided to conduct a survey to assess public opinion on renal transplantation. The majority of the 300 respondents (78.7%) were willing to donate their kidneys if needed. Even after learning of the small theoretical risks of kidney failure, 72.33% of all respondents were still willing to proceed with transplantation. Respondents who had relatives on dialysis and who had a higher education level were more willing to donate their kidneys. There was no significant difference between Muslims and non-Muslims. Most respondents (59.7%) preferred to have transplantation done locally. This study shows that most Bruneians are receptive of the idea of living related kidney donations, which augurs well for the sustainability of a new program. More work is needed to overcome other barriers like the availability of surgical expertise and facilities and cost-benefit considerations.