[Attitudes towards euthanasia: The impact of experiencing end-of-life care].

BACKGROUND

It is a matter of debate whether euthanasia should be part of medical practice.

OBJECTIVES

The current study investigates the attitudes of bereaved family members of cancer patients towards euthanasia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a survey with 211 people who had recently lost a close relative to cancer. Participants were asked whether euthanasia should be part of medical practice.Two logistic regression models were calculated in order to determine the factors influencing the attitude towards active euthanasia and assisted suicide.

RESULTS

About 70% and 75% of the respondents approved active euthanasia and assisted suicide, respectively. Religious denomination and psychological distress had a significant impact on the attitude towards active euthanasia. About 10%of the deceased patients had asked for active euthanasia.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no difference between bereaved family members and the general population regarding the acceptance of euthanasia. Attitudes towards active euthanasia are associated with psychological distress and shaped by cultural values rather than by the experience of end-of-life care.