Now Reading: Smokers, drinkers, obese can still be organ donors, say doctors
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Smokers, drinkers, obese can still be organ donors, say doctors
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…
The Story in Brief
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.
The Indian Opinion
A common narrative suggests only perfect specimens can donate organs, scaring off potential donors and worsening India's transplant shortage. The facts are more practical: doctors judge each organ on its own merit, not the donor's lifestyle. Smokers or obese persons often have healthy kidneys or livers that can save lives. The real test is not a moral one but a medical evaluation. Will the next campaign urge people to register as donors first, and let doctors decide later?
Source: timesnownews.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
