The Reality of Liver Transplants: A Call for Change

Currently, 14,424 patients in the US are on the waiting list for a liver transplant, but only 7,841 transplants were performed in 2016. Moreover, 1,209 patients were removed from the wait list because they died, often due to mismatched donor organs or familial opposition. This article delves into the complexities of liver transplants and their availability, highlighting the urgent need for change in policies and public awareness.

Current Statistics and Challenges

The high demand for liver transplants is starkly evident with the current 14,424 patients awaiting a life-saving procedure. In 2016, only 7,841 transplants were conducted, a mere 54.28% of those in need. This statistic reveals a concerning gap in the availability of organ transplants to those who most urgently require them.

Barriers to Transplantation

Organ transplantation is a complex and multifaceted process. The primary barrier to transplantation is the shortage of available organs. In 2016, the shortage was exacerbated by the 1,209 deaths of patients on the wait list. This situation is compounded by familial opposition to donation, as experienced with the author's mother-in-law who required a kidney transplant.

Attitudinal Challenges

The author's mother-in-law received a call about a potential kidney match twice but was ultimately denied the chance due to family opposition. This highlights the emotional and psychological barriers that can prevent individuals from becoming organ donors. The author emphasizes that organs are valuable even after death, stating that 'Organs are no good to dead people.' This sentiment underscores the need for a change in public attitudes towards organ donation.

Medications and Live Donor Risks

Despite the critical need for organ transplants, barrier medications like the ones the author is on make live organ donation a high-risk surgery. However, the author willingly registered to be an organ donor. The statement, 'When I’m dead, take what you want; it’s no good to me anymore,' reflects a commitment to helping others, even in death. This attitude needs to be more widely embraced to address the shortage of organ donations.

Call to Action

The urgency for change cannot be overstated. The current policies and public awareness surrounding organ donation need a serious overhaul. It is imperative that families, medical professionals, and policymakers work together to ensure that all eligible individuals who need organ transplants can receive them in a timely manner. Education campaigns, policy reforms, and community engagement initiatives can significantly improve donation rates and save more lives.

Every organ donated can make a profound difference in the lives of those awaiting a transplant. The author's journey and experience should serve as a reminder that organ donation is a noble act that can benefit not only the recipient but also their loved ones. By changing our attitudes and actions regarding organ donation, we can bridge the gap between need and availability and ensure that no one suffers due to the lack of available organs.

Together, we can create a world where every patient in need of a liver or kidney transplant can receive the critical life-saving treatment they require.