Background: This integrative systematic review using narrative synthesis aims to explore the barriers and facilitators of deceased organ donation among Muslims living worldwide. Despite studies on deceased organ donation among Muslims across the globe, there is a gap in synthesizing all those primary studies and understanding what evidence already exists.
Method: An extensive search strategy was used to retrieve studies from databases such as PubMed, CINAHL, Medline, Scopus, PsycINFO, Global Health, and Web of Science. A basic search was also used on other relevant journals that are not indexed in these databases. A total of 98 studies were shortlisted from 15,675 studies, spread across the globe with more than 60,000 participants, including both quantitative and qualitative studies. All 98 studies were checked for quality using the JBI quality appraisal tools. The data from the included studies were analysed using narrative synthesis.
Findings: Using narrative synthesis, findings from the 98 studies were grouped into five global themes: 1) knowledge, 2) attitude, 3) cultural influences, 4) bodily concerns, and 5) religious understanding of deceased organ donation. The findings revealed that the studied population is aware of both deceased and living organ donation, with a higher preference for the latter. Their views toward deceased organ donation were influenced by their complex interactions with the themes mentioned above. Also, decision-making in this community was predominantly collective, shaped by socio-religious constructs rather than individual choices. The majority of the individuals had a positive view toward deceased organ donation and were willing to donate. However, unclear views on religious standpoints, how the deceased body is treated during organ harvesting procedures, last rituals and funeral procedures, and beliefs on life after death strongly influenced their decision. Though they were willing to hear from the religious leaders, the majority of the participants had not heard religious leaders talking about concepts of deceased organ donation. Their preference to decide based on their religious views toward deceased organ donation was seen in the studies irrespective of the country where the study was undertaken. It emphasizes the importance of global collaboration within the Islamic community to address this information gap and promote informed decision-making among the global Muslim population.
Conclusion: This study underscores the requirement of bridging the information gap between deceased organ donation, transplantation stakeholders, and global Muslim communities regarding organ donation. Further research focusing on stakeholder perspectives in gaining consent among Muslim families is also crucial. Addressing these issues collectively can significantly enhance informed decision-making processes and positively influence organ donation rates within this population.