Euthanasia and Other Medical Decisions Concerning the end of Life

3 studies were undertaken: detailed interviews with 405 physicians, the mailing of questionnaires to the physicians of a sample of 7000 deceased persons, & collecting information about 2250 deaths by a prospective survey among the respondents to the interviews. Since medical decisions concerning the end of life were taken in 38% of all deaths & in 54% of all non-acute deaths it can be concluded that euthanasia, non-treatment, & alleviation of pain & symptoms are common medical practices & should get more attention in research, teaching, & public debate. (LC) (19 refs)