Since 1954, when doctors successfully performed the first human organ transplant, the lives of more than 400,000 Americans have been saved by transplantation. It is the leading form of treatment for many forms of end-stage organ failure.
With this success, however, has come increasing demand for donated organs. Today, more than 91,000 people are awaiting transplants nationwide, and an average of 118 people are added to the transplant waiting list daily (that’s one every 12 minutes).
But there are not enough organs donated each year for the people who need them.
“Each day an average of 17 people die while waiting for a suitable organ,” says Walter Graham, executive director of United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), a nonprofit group that coordinates the nation’s organ-transplant system.
The only long-term solution to the shortage is for more people to agree to become organ donors. However, misperception of the organ-donation process may deter potential donors. Here are some common myths and facts about organ sharing.
Myth: Only hearts, livers and kidneys can be transplanted.
Fact: The list of organs that are needed includes heart, kidneys, pancreas, lungs, liver and intestines. Tissue can be used from the eyes, skin, bone, heart valves and tendons.
Myth: Your history of medical illness or your age means your organs or tissues are unfit for donation.
Fact: People of all ages and medical histories should consider themselves donors. At the time of death, medical professionals will review your medical and social histories to determine whether you can be a donor.
Myth: If you are an organ donor, your family will be charged for the costs.
Fact: There is no cost to the donor’s family or estate for organ and tissue donation.
When a person’s physician determines that an organ transplant may be necessary, the patient is referred to a transplant center for evaluation. The medical team at the transplant center determines whether a patient is a good candidate; if the answer is yes, the patient is then added to the waiting list.
When a deceased organ donor is identified, a transplant coordinator accesses the computerized matching system. Each transplant candidate in the pool is matched against the donor characteristics. The computer then generates a ranked list of patients, based on factors such as tissue match, blood type, and medical urgency.
Graham urges all people, no matter their age or medical history, to consider themselves as potential donors. It’s also vitally important, he adds, to discuss your decision with your family.
More information is available online at www.donatelife.net and www.optn.org.