By Phenyo Selinda
Pretoria – The Department of Health has called on citizens to consider becoming organ and tissue donors to help save lives and improve the quality of life for those suffering from life-threatening diseases or organ failure. This appeal comes as part of the department’s efforts to address the critical shortage of organ donors in the country.
The Impact of Organ and Tissue Donation
“Organ donation is when organs such as the heart, lungs, liver and kidneys are removed from one person and transplanted into another person,” the department explained. A single donor can save up to seven lives and transform over 50 lives, highlighting the profound impact that organ donation can have.
Tissue donation, on the other hand, involves the transplantation of tissues like skin, corneas, and bone. Despite the life-saving potential of these donations, the department estimates that over 2 500 people remain on the active waiting list for organ and tissue transplants. Sadly, many lose their lives while waiting for this precious gift.
Addressing the Shortage
“Currently, organ donors are in very short supply because of limited knowledge amongst citizens,” the department said. To combat this, the Department of Health, in collaboration with various non-governmental organisations, has dedicated the month of August to Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Month.
Who Can Become a Donor?
According to the department, anyone aged 18 years or older can become an organ or tissue donor. Donors do not receive any financial reward and must meet certain medical conditions to qualify. “One can donate organs such as the kidney and liver lobe and continue to live a normal and healthy life because organs like the liver regenerate over time.”
However, it is important to note that selling or trading human organs or tissues is illegal in South Africa and globally, as it can perpetuate organ and human trafficking.
The Transplant Process
“An organ transplant takes place in both government and private hospitals after an individual has been declared circulatory (heart stopped beating) or brain dead, but is still being supported by artificial life support,” the department explained. Tissue donation and retrieval can occur several hours, and even days, after death, provided consent from loved ones is given.
How to Become a Donor
Potential donors can visit their nearest public or private hospital for assistance with the donation process. Alternatively, they can contact the Organ Donor Foundation at 0800 22 66 11 or visit www.odf.org.za. Those interested in bone marrow donation can reach the SA Bone Marrow Registry at 021 447 8630, while tissue donors can contact the Centre for Tissue Engineering at Tshwane University of Technology at 012 349 3500 or visit www.tissuedonation.org.za.
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