# Smokers, drinkers, obese can still be organ donors, say doctors 2026-08-13T07:15:20+00:00 | Health & Science | Indian Opinion Desk Corroboration: 1 independent outlet Smoking, alcohol use or obesity do not automatically disqualify someone from organ donation, doctors say on Organ Donation Day. Each organ is assessed individually for health and suitability before transplantation, reports Times Now. "Just because someone smokes, drinks alcohol, or has obesity, it does not mean they cannot be an organ donor," said Dr Jaydeep Anadkat, Consultant, Critical Care Medicine, Sterling Hospital. Factors such as lung function, heart health, and the extent of organ damage determine eligibility. Dr Gireesh MS, Head of Nephrology at Ramaiah Memorial Hospital, noted that donor age alone cannot decide organ suitability, as older donors may have healthier organs than younger ones with hidden conditions. Living donors, who may give a kidney or part of a liver, undergo extensive medical and psychological evaluation to ensure safety. India's high unmet need for organs makes such assessments crucial. ## Coverage - timesnownews.com Tags: health myths, obesity, organ donation, smoking, transplant Canonical: https://indianopinion.org/smokers-drinkers-obese-can-still-be-organ-donors-say-doctors/ License: Summary and commentary (c) Indian Opinion, reusable with attribution. Facts belong to the linked sources. Cite: https://indianopinion.org/smokers-drinkers-obese-can-still-be-organ-donors-say-doctors/#story-in-brief Review state: restored archive article, accurate at time of publication, not offered to search indexes.