Why might people donate tissue for cancer research? Insights from organ/tissue/blood donation and clinical research

Abstract

Little is known about why patients with cancer do or do not donate their tissue for research. A review of the literature on motivations to participate in clinical research and to donate tissues/organs for therapeutic use may provide some insights relevant to tumour banking research. While more research is necessary, a better understanding of the reasons that motivate patients to give or refuse consent to tumour banking may ultimately improve consent practices, public trust and donation rates. Key Words: Tumour Banking, Bio-banking, Motivation, The Gift Relationship, Research Participation, Organ Donation, Trust.