Euthanasia in Ecuador: a sociocultural and ethical analysis from the perspective of physicians and medical students
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.36097/rgcs.v3i2.3231Keywords:
euthanasia, healthcare staff attitudes, medical ethics, cross-cultural comparisonAbstract
This study analyzed the sociocultural and ethical factors that influence the criteria of physicians and medical students in Ecuador regarding euthanasia. The methodology was developed in a descriptive, cross-sectional way, with a sample of 178 participants. Data collection was carried out using a structured questionnaire that included sociodemographic variables and the ATE-ES-R scale. The results showed that most of the participants were general practitioners (46.1%) and students (42.1%), with a predominance of women and the catholic religion. In relation to attitudes towards euthanasia, a general trend towards moderate positions was observed, with averages between 2.39 and 3.31. Significant associations were identified between academic training and several items on the scale (p < 0.05), showing that students have greater acceptance of euthanasia, specialist doctors have more conservative positions, and general practitioners have an intermediate position. In conclusion, attitudes towards euthanasia are heterogeneous and are influenced by factors such as ethical training, clinical experience, and religious beliefs, highlighting the importance of strengthening bioethics education and establishing clear guidelines that guide clinical practice, promoting ethical care focused on the dignity of the patient at the end of life.
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The datasets used and/or analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.
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