What is the Extent of the Problem in India

India, with a population of over 1.3 billion, faces a surprisingly low rate of deceased organ donation, at just one donor per million people. This results in a significant gap between the number of organs needed for transplantation and the available supply. Currently, there are 300,000 patients on the waiting list, and tragically, 20 people die each day while waiting for an organ. Additionally, someone new is added to this list every 10 minutes.

Organ transplants can significantly enhance the quality of life for patients. They provide a second chance at life, enable a return to daily activities, and lessen the necessity for medical and family support.

What is Organ Donation

Organ donation is the process of giving an organ or tissue from one person (the donor) to another person (the recipient) who requires a transplant. Organs that can be donated include the heart, kidneys, liver, lungs, pancreas, intestines, and tissues such as corneas, skin, and bone marrow.

Organ donation can be life-saving for individuals suffering from organ failure or certain medical conditions. In many instances, organs are donated after the donor’s death, known as deceased donation. However, living individuals can also donate specific organs or tissues, such as a kidney or part of their liver, while they are still alive (living donation).

Donating organs is a selfless act that can provide someone else with a second chance at life. This process typically involves registering with an organ donation registry. Individuals can decide to donate during their lifetime or give consent for organ donation through their family members after death.