Organ transplantation is often the only viable treatment for end-stage organ failure, yet a global organ shortage persists, with only 10% of demand met. Transplantation rates vary widely, with the U.S. and Spain reaching over 130 transplants per million people, while countries like India see just 12 per million, and many regions lack data or established programs. This shortage has spurred an illegal organ trade that exploits vulnerable populations. In response, the World Health Assembly passed a resolution in May 2024, led by Spain, to increase organ availability and ensure ethical access. Spain’s leadership in organ donation, with the highest deceased donor rate globally, is attributed to its comprehensive legislative framework, clinical leadership, and efficient logistics under the National Transplant Organization (ONT), supported by strong societal backing—a model that may inform practices in other countries.1

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References

  1. Lancet, N. (2024). Organ donation: lessons from the Spanish model. The Lancet, 404(10459), 1171. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0140-6736(24)02128-7

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