Abstract 737P
Background
Advancements in biomedical research require biobanks for specimen storage, aiding disease prevention and treatment. Despite benefits, biobanks face ethical, legal, and social challenges. This project explores healthcare workers’ views on biobanking to develop governing policies and guidelines.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted among healthcare workers in Pakistan using a prestructured questionnaire containing socio-demographic factors, prior knowledge of biobanking, and perceptions and attitudes toward biobanking, preceded by an introduction to biobanks. Data analyses were conducted using SPSS.
Results
This study of 249 healthcare workers in Pakistan highlights significant awareness (35%) and positive attitudes towards biobanking. About 30% of respondents were aware of biobanks specifically in Pakistan. Key findings reveal strong support for transparent sample distribution policies (69.9%) and secure data storage practices (77.9%). However, uncertainties were noted regarding religious alignment (48.9%) and willingness to donate samples (42.9%). Prior knowledge of biobanking correlated significantly with age (p=0.045), gender (p=0.034), and healthcare worker status (p=0.007). Females showed greater alignment with biobanking aspects such as impact on sample quality (p=0.003), regulatory considerations (p=0.00), and importance for diagnostics (p=0.029). Interest in biobanking courses was notably higher among younger individuals and physicians. Stronger agreement among females (p=0.008, p=0.035) and physicians (p=0.003, p=0.007) was also observed regarding issues of religious alignment and biobank ownership.
Conclusions
The study highlights encouraging levels of awareness and positive attitudes towards biobanking among healthcare workers in Pakistan. However, addressing uncertainties surrounding religious alignment and sample donation is crucial. Strengthening education efforts and implementing transparent governance are essential to further foster trust, enhance participation, and maximize the potential of biobanking in advancing healthcare and research initiatives in the region.
Clinical trial identification
Editorial acknowledgement
Legal entity responsible for the study
The authors.
Funding
Has not received any funding.
Disclosure
All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.