It is difficult to believe that there are many people out there who choose not to opt for organ donation because of the myths that surround it. Wonder what they are? Here we list the ones that are the most prevalent. Take a look!
Did you know…
… that according to studies carried out by Donate Life, around 90% of Americans say they support donation, but only 30% know the required steps to be a donor.
Donating an organ is perhaps the biggest act of charity that human beings are capable of. After all, what better way to help than to help save lives. And the beauty of it all is that the donor has nothing to lose, for all he/she needs to do is pledge his/her organs for donation after death. Now, if you’re thinking that there may be countless people out there who are willing to do this service to mankind, think again.
You’ll be shocked to know that many of us dread donating organs simply because we are scared, thanks to the myths that surround the process. In this Buzzle article, we have attempted to debunk some common myths about organ donation, as we try to uncover the truth behind them.
Debunking Myths about Organ Donation
Myth #1
This is completely False. When you’re admitted to a hospital with an emergency, the first priority of the doctors and physicians is to do everything possible to save your life. In fact, the law makes it mandatory for a separate team of doctors to carry out the process of organ donation and transplantation. A team of paramedics will rush to a patient’s care irrespective of whether he/she is a donor or not, and ensure that all efforts are made to save the patient’s life. It is only after the patient is declared brain-dead that the possibility of organ donation is considered.
Myth #2
The fact is that there is no age criteria for donation of organs and tissues, and you can consider donation regardless of how old or young you are. Solid organs like the heart and liver are more commonly transplanted from donors who are not more than 75 years old. However, donation of tissues, such as skin and cornea, is accepted from people who are older. The only factor that determines your eligibility for donation is your medical condition at the time of death.
Myth #3
It is a common belief that organ donation causes unnecessary hassles to the family of the deceased, and that they have to wait longer to receive the body. However, this is far from the truth. Families who have decided to say yes to organ donation, have cherished their decision later, and were happy that their loved one could save lives. So, if you’ve chosen to donate your organs, let your family be aware of your decision.
Myth #4
This is not true in most states, where the consent of the family is legally mandatory for a person’s organs to be used, and just the willingness or decision of the donor is not enough. You should also know that your family can overrule your decision. So, it is recommended that you should take your immediate kin into confidence once you have chosen to be a donor.
Myth #5
Most people think that organ donation leads to disfigurement of the donor’s body, but this is not true. The donor’s body is treated with dignity and it is ensured that there are no apparent signs of organ donation.
Myth #6
Just like your age does not act as a barrier against your decision to donate organs, even a history of medical illness does not mean you cannot qualify as a potential donor. Only a qualified medical practitioner will be able to tell whether you should go ahead with your noble decision. You’ll be surprised to know that even people who are diagnosed with chronic conditions can donate organs if they wish to. And as stated above, it all depends on your medical condition at the time of death.
Myth #7
This is a myth because the family of the donor never bears the cost of the surgery for removal of organs. The family of the recipient of the organ has to bear the expenses of the entire process of organ transplantation.
Myth #8
This is not true because even people who are alive can donate one kidney, bone marrow, and a part of the liver, lung or pancreas. This is known as living donation. Contrary to what most people believe, living donation does not affect the life expectancy of the donor. The donor can lead a normal life once he/she has recovered from surgery.
Myth #9
This is not exactly the case. With rapid advancements in technology, it has become easier for donors to help a wide range of people and not just family members.
Myth #10
This is a myth because you are free to choose which organs you wish to donate. Just mention this when you register to be a donor and tell your family members about it.
Myth #11
The identity of the donor and his/her family is kept confidential and is never revealed to the family of the recipient.
Myth #12
Organs and/or tissues donated to save someone’s life will never be used for research. So, have faith that your organs will indeed serve the purpose you intended them to, and take a step towards this noble cause.
Now that we have busted so many myths and misconceptions about organ donation, here’s hoping you’ll choose to contribute towards this noble service to humanity. Together we can make the world a happier place for the less fortunate or those who are suffering.
