Challenges and Opportunities in Deceased Organ Donation Program: Insights from a Tertiary Care Hospital in South India

Abstract

Background: Organ transplantation is a critical medical intervention for patients with end-stage organ failure. Deceased organ donation plays a pivotal role in meeting the demand for organs. However, there exists a significant disparity between the need for organs and their availability, especially in low-income countries. India, despite its potential donor pool, faces a severe shortage of organs for transplantation. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study analyzed hospital records of 116 potential deceased organ donors from 2013 to 2020. Data encompassed demographics, next-of-kin consent for organ transplantation, and circumstances of injury. Results: Results revealed that 85.34% of potential donors were men, and 14.66% were women. After counseling, 71.55% (83/116) of the families consented to deceased organ donation. Most potential donors fell within the 21–30 age group (25.88%). The majority of donors (80.17%) died due to road traffic accidents (RTAs), primarily two-wheeler drivers constituted the largest group of deceased (51.72%). Conclusion: Bridging the gap between organ demand and supply in India necessitates addressing the lack of awareness regarding brain death and organ transplantation. Collaborative efforts involving NGOs, healthcare institutions, media, and government bodies are essential to raise awareness and improve donation rates, especially in public health centers. Establishing guidelines for compassionate discussions with families about organ donation is imperative.

Keywords

• deceased organ donation
• healthcare awareness
• organ donation rates
• organ transplantation
• road traffic accidents