As of February 22, 2010, approximately 105,784 people are on a waiting list to receive a donated organ, according to OrganDonor.gov, which provides "U.S. government information on organ and tissue donation and transplantation." From January through November 2009 there were 26,081 organ transplants performed.
Absolute Exclusions
While all people should consider becoming an organ donor, there are a few automatic exclusions that will prevent someone from becoming a donor, according to OrganDonor.gov. Donors cannot be HIV positive, have cancer at the time of donation or have any kind of infection that affects organs or tissues.
Age Requirements
There are no age limits for being an organ donor. According to OrganDonor.gov, "newborns and senior citizens have been organ donors." However, if you are a minor (under age 18), you must have written consent from a parent or legal guardian in order to be an organ donor. The common age range for living organ donation is 18 to 60.
Types
Organs and tissue (i.e. stem cells, bone marrow and blood) may be donated from a living person. A living person is also permitted to donate one kidney, as well as a portion of his liver and lungs. Solid organs and tissues may also be donated after declared brain or cardiac death. A living person may also will his entire body to be donated to a university or research institution for educational and scientific purposes.
Organ Condition
The condition of a potential donor's organs is crucial to his donation status. OrganDonor.gov states that a young person may not be able to donate a portion of his liver because of past alcohol abuse, whereas an elderly person who has lived an alcohol-free life could donate a portion of his liver. Each donor's organs are thoroughly examined by a physician in order to be approved for donation.
Expert Insight
According to OrganDonor.gov, a living donor should be thoroughly counseled on her decision to undergo elective surgery that could have a major impact on her body and life. There have been no formal studies conducted to survey living donors several years after their surgeries. All donors should carefully weigh the risks and make an educated decision after consulting their physicians.
