Awareness and Perception of concept of  body donation among the first year medical students: A questionnaire-based study

Background This study aimed to evaluate the awareness and perception of concept of body donation among the first year medical students of our institution. The objectives were to assist the medical teachers in providing insights into the perception of body donation among students. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted at Kasturba Medical College Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, India during the academic year 2024 and 2025 and comprised of 29 validated questions regarding the comprehensive aspects of body donation. There were 396 first year medical students from the year 2024-25 and 2025-26 admitted batches. Results Most students (94.4%) were aware of the source of cadavers in the dissection hall, which were either donated or unclaimed bodies from the hospital. However, 38.9% of them were unaware of the guidelines for body donation, and 79% were ignorant of the documents required to pledge. However, 84.3% were aware that it was mandatory to sign a pledge form. The time frame to procure the dead body to the department of anatomy of the institution was not known to 79% of the participants, and 93.2% of the participants opined that corpses from other neighboring states could be accepted. Opinions regarding the acceptance of donated bodies afflicted with long COVID were supported by 218 (55.1%), not supported by 47 (11.9%), and neutral by 131 (33.1%) participants in this study. Conclusion The present study observed that, there were specific knowledge gaps encountered among the students, which include timeframe, logistics, and legal issues in procuring the body. Since medical students play an important role in the societal motivation of body donation, it is suggested that a scientific session can be planned in their first year medical curriculum regarding the guidelines involved to enhance the awareness.