Organ donation
Death, particularly sudden unexpected death, is not a topic people enjoy thinking about. However, every day accidents happen and some relatively young people will die. But out of these tragedies can come some good if the person who has died, or their relatives, have thought about organ donation.
Every year hundreds of lives are saved by the transplantation of organs, which are usually taken from the victims of accidents. At any time, thousands of people with kidney failure are waiting for a kidney transplant and many people with heart disease are waiting for a heart to be available. Other organs that can be used in this way include lungs, liver, pancreas and cornea (surface of the eye).
Sadly, many people will die before they can have a transplant. For others, lack of a transplant may mean years of unpleasant treatment just to stay alive.
If you would like to know more about being an organ donor, discuss it with your doctor.
Last Reviewed: 24 May 2002
