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Abstract
Perspectives from HIV/AIDS patients regarding euthanasia
P Vyras1, E Chatsidi1, E Stavrakaki1, K Serafeimidou1, I Matziris1, A Gryllionakis1, D Brimis1, G Papadopoulos1, N Papadopoulos2
1Venizeleion Hospital, Herakleion, Greece; 2ELPIDA, Athens, Greece
Background: Findings from a study conducted in the European Union (EU) about care in HIV/AIDS indicate that infected persons are increasingly concerned with the issue of euthanasia. Their view is examined in the light of available options regarding end-of-life decisions.
Methods: Cross-sectional descriptive survey of ambulatory out-patients attending major HIV/AIDS centers in 11 EU countries. 2751 standardized, anonymous, self-administered questionnaires were examined (49% of total distribution). The questions addressed issues concerning the quality of care and the experience of patients with treatment (medical and other).
Results: Respondents in this sample favor euthanasia in cases of: severe physical suffering (78%), severe psychological suffering (47%), mere patient request (24%). Prospected ways to discontinue life were: pain alleviation with double effect (81%), passive euthanasia (69%), medical euthanasia (62%), physician assisted suicide (45%). Euthanasia was acceptable for terminal illness and after other treatments are exhausted (50%).
Conclusions: It is anticipated that eventual availability of legal euthanasia as an option may reduce patients anxiousness about losing control over the death process. The prospect of having a choice to "die well" may ease patients fears concerning progression of disease and unbearable suffering.
The XIV International AIDS Conference
Abstract no.
B10648
Suggested Citation
" P Vyras , , et al.
Perspectives from HIV/AIDS patients regarding euthanasia
.
Print Only:
The XIV International AIDS Conference:
Abstract no.
B10648"
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