What does the UK public think about animal-to-human organ transplants?

About the study

In September 2024, the National Centre for Social Research (NatCen) conducted a survey amongst its Opinion Panel members on attitudes towards xenotransplantation on behalf of the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) supported by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).

Building on earlier ethical reviews from the 1990s, this study is the most up-to-date of its kind in Europe and offers the first representative UK data on public views toward xenotransplantation

Xenotransplantation – which involves the transfer of living cells, tissues, or organs between species, typically from pigs to humans – has long been seen as a potential solution to organ shortages. However, its emergence raises complex ethical questions and concerns about global health equity.  

The survey explored the public attitudes towards xenotransplantation, including awareness of the concept, willingness to accept animal organs (such as genetically modified pig hearts or kidneys), and views on ethical, religious, and safety concerns. It also examined how support varied across demographic groups and whether attitudes changed after respondents received more information.

Key findings

The majority of the UK public support xenotransplantation

• 65% of UK adults supported the use of genetically modified pig organs for human transplants, with support increasing slightly after receiving more information.

Demographic differences in support

• Support was higher among men, White respondents, and those aged 60+ or 18–39. It was lower among Muslims, vegans, and people with a disability that affected their day-to-day life a lot.
• Groups experiencing the greatest shortage of human organ transplants - such as self-identified Black and Asian people – are more sceptical about xenotransplantation

Willingness to accept a pig organ

• 60% were willing to accept a pig organ transplant themselves. Willingness was significantly lower among those who don’t eat meat or pork, and among Muslims.

Impact on support for human organ donation

• Only 5% UK adults reported the availability of animal organs would reduce their willingness to donate their organs at the end of life.

Ethical and safety concerns

• Key concerns included mixing animal and human DNA (16%) and risk of infection (12%). However, 16% reported no concerns. Independent regulatory approval was the most reassuring factor for the public.

Methodology

Fieldwork period, sample, mode

Fieldwork for this study was conducted using the NatCen Opinion Panel – a random-probability panel of people recruited from high-quality, random probability studies such as the British Social Attitudes survey. The data was collected between 30th August and 29th September 2024 using a sequential mixed mode design (web and telephone).

Survey flow

The survey began by exploring general attitudes to human organ donation and transplantation. It then asked about religious and moral beliefs, dietary practices, and views on related scientific and medical issues such as genetic modification and the use of animals in healthcare. Next, the concept of xenotransplantation was introduced, followed by questions on awareness, and levels of support or opposition. Respondents were asked whether they would accept a pig organ transplant, under what circumstances, and their concerns. Subsequent sections explored treatment prioritisation, impact of pig organ availability on the NHS on human donation attitudes. Finally, the survey assessed shifts in views and attitudes following the provision of information.

Recognising the sensitivity and complexity of the topic, the survey used plain language and allowed respondents to express both support and concerns. For more information on the questionnaire development, read our blog here.

Response rate

Out of 5,986 panel members invited to take part, 3,193 completed the survey – yielding a 53% response rate. Of those who completed the survey, 3,043 took part online while 150 by phone.

Weighting

The data was weighted to be representative of the UK adult (18+) population.