World Organ Donation Day 2025: The Call for Change

• Written by Jyotsana Shekhawat

  Reviewed by Akhil Pillai

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Every 10 minutes, one person is added to the organ transplant waitlist in India. 20 people die every day waiting for an organ. There is a significant gap between demand and supply. India witnesses 17,000 to 18,000 solid organ transplants annually, a number exceeded only by the US and China. However, the gap persists and calls for more organ donation awareness. More than 3 lakh patients are waiting for organ donations, while the number of donors is only a few thousand. Moreover, organ donation has shown only slow growth over the years.  World Organ Donation Day, observed globally on 13th August, is a stark reminder for all of us to reflect on this serious numbers and do our part to make a positive change.

History of World Organ Donation Day

World Organ Donation Day is an important global event that commemorates the first-ever living donor organ transplant done in 1954 in the USA. This day is observed every year to raise awareness about organ donation and encourage more people to donate. Note, many countries observe this day as per their history of organ donation.

In India, the first successful deceased organ donation occurred on 3rd August 1994. Hence, Organ Donation Day in India has been observed on 3rd August starting from 2023. Before 2023, National Organ Donation Day was celebrated on 27th November, starting in 2010. The National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO) designated July as Organ Donation Month to commemorate the implementation of the Transplantation of Human Organ Act on 8th July 1994.

World Organ Donation Day 2025 Theme: “Answering the Call”

The World Organ Donation Day 2025 theme, "Answering the Call”, emphasises the urgent need for more donors and the moral courage that it takes to say yes to giving life to someone. This theme surpasses age, background, religion, and societal taboo. It invites us all to reflect on our ability to make a positive impact that lasts a lifetime.

From registered doctors to those new to exploring this idea, the theme of World Organ Donation Day 2025 provokes a thought amongst everyone. This is not just about thinking, it is also about acting now. Now is the time to decide how we can initiate a good change.

Importance of World Organ Donation Day

The main idea of observing World Organ Donation Day is to nudge people to pledge to donate organs after death. While it is a serious decision, and perhaps even complex, the impact of this action is profound and far-reaching. It can set a wonderful example of humanity. Here are the reasons why organ donation is one of the best decisions one can make:

• One Donor Can Save Multiple Lives: One organ donor can save up to 8 lives and improve the lives of 75 others through tissue donation. It creates a ripple effect that multiplies across families and in fact, generations and drives a change across communities.
• Organ Donation is in Demand: Lifestyle diseases are on the rise, accidents are increasing, and chronic illnesses are becoming more prevalent. There is a growing number of patients awaiting transplants. Unfortunately, the number of registered donors has not met demand.
• It’s a Way of Life: Organ donation is a way for individuals to leave a legacy of healing, humility, and above all, hope for the next generation. It is a profound way to continue making an impact in the world even after life comes to an end.
• Myths Need to Be Debunked: “Doctors are working hard” or “It is not that simple” are some of the myths surrounding organ donation that prevent people from registering. Organ donation follows strict ethical and legal guidelines and never compromises patient care.
• Families Find Comfort: Many donor families report a sense of peace knowing that their loved one lives on through someone else. It turns grief into a meaningful contribution to society.

Types of Organ Donation

Organ donation isn’t limited to one form. Understanding the different types can help individuals make more informed choices:

Living Donation

When a living person donates an organ or a part of the organ, it is called a living donation. The most common examples of living donations are kidney donation, liver donation, blood donation, etc. A person can donate an organ only if he is medically fit, and his blood type and tissue match the person who needs a transplant.

Cadaver Donation

When a person’s organs are donated after his death, it is called cadaver or diseased donation. In such cases, the organs should be removed as soon as possible. A person who is willing to donate organs after his death needs to register for organ donation. How a donor dies is also an important factor in deciding which organs can be donated.

• In case of brain death, all vital organs can be donated such as heart donation, lung donation, pancreas donation, kidney and liver donation.
• In case of a natural death, only tissue donation is possible such as cornea donation, bone marrow donation, heart valve donation, etc. This is because vital organs die due to a lack of oxygen supply after death.

Taking the Pledge? 5 Things to Keep in Mind

While you are on your way to inspire the action for change, here are the important things to keep in mind as you pledge to donate organ/s:

• Understand the Law: In India, organ donation is governed by the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act (THOTA), 1994. The governing body ensures ethical practices and donor protection.
• Talk to Your Family: Even if you register as a donor, your family’s consent is essential. Make sure they’re aware of your wishes to avoid confusion during emergencies.
• Choose a Verified Registry: Make sure you sign up via authorised platforms like NOTTO, state transplant registries, or any major hospitals with organ donation programs.
• Carry a Donor Card: Keep your card card in your wallet or a mention on your driving license. It can help medical personnel act faster in critical situations.
• Stay Informed: Medical conditions, lifestyle, and age can affect your eligibility for organ donation. While most people can donate, confirm if you are eligible to proceed with donation.

Donate Organs, Save Lives, and Inspire Hope

Any healthy individual irrespective of age, gender and religion can become an organ donor. It is a noble act and everyone should pledge their organs. You can fill an online pledge form by Organ India to register as a donor. Once registered, NOTTO issues a donor card with a unique registration number. Remember in India, family consent is also important for organ donation.

World Organ Donation Day is a special day to honor organ donors whose selfless acts have saved many lives. Moreover, individuals in need of an organ transplant should be aware that donor expenses are covered under health insurance coverage. Care Health Insurance offers coverage for organ donors, subject to specific terms and conditions. If you want to know more about the various insurance plans that cover organ donor expenses, contact our team for more information.

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Disclaimer: The above information is for reference purposes only. Kindly consult your general physician for verified medical advice. The health insurance benefits are subject to policy terms and conditions. Refer to your policy documents for more information.