“How Could She See Herself Something Other Than a Woman?”, The Cultural Perceptions Around Organ Transplantation in Pakistan: Perspectives from Sociology and Health Policy
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Keywords
Organ Transplantation, Health Policy, Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, Male-like Characteristics, Pluralistic Ignorance, Mental Health
Abstract
Organ transplantation is a life-saving procedure that can improve quality of life for patients with end-stage organ failure. However, in Pakistan there are cultural, religious, and social barriers that hinder acceptance and practice of organ donation and transplantation. This study is novel in its scope as no previous studies has been done on this matter. We conducted qualitative interviews with 6 organ recipients, 6 donors, and health professionals in Pakistan. Using interpretative phenomenological analysis, we found that most families believe their females adopt male-like characteristics after successful transplantation from a male donor. We analyze these perceptions using concepts of identity, embodiment, and agency to understand how organ transplantation affects recipients' sense of self and social relations. This study also examines health policy implications, including legal and ethical frameworks, public awareness, and health system capacity needed to improve organ transplantation in Pakistan. This requires a holistic, context-sensitive approach addressing diverse stakeholder needs and concerns. Organ transplantation is not just a medical intervention, but a complex sociocultural phenomenon that have direct impact on the physical and mental health of the recipient.
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Dr. Basharat Ali
Assistant Professor Department of Sociology, Government College University Faisalabad
Dr. Sana Ejaz
Lecturer Department of Sociology, Government College University Faisalabad
Dr. Falak Sher
Assistant Professor and Director In-charge at Department of Sociology, Government College University Faisalabad Chiniot Campus
Ammara Asghar
Lecturer Department of Sociology, Government College University Faisalabad
Dr. Muhammad Umar Zafar
Lecturer Department of Sociology, Government College University Faisalabad Chiniot Campus
Muhammad Touseef
Undergraduate Research Scholar at Department of Sociology, Government College University Faisalabad
Muhammad Sharjeel Younas
PhD Scholar at Department of Sociology, Government College University Faisalabad
Shozab Abbas
Undergraduate student at Department of Sociology, Government College University Faisalabad