Why should minorities be more concerned about organ donation?

Riverside Health System

Minorities have a particularly high need for organ transplants because some diseases of the kidney, heart, lung, pancreas, and liver are more common in racial and ethnic minority populations than in the general population. For example, African Americans, Asian and Pacific Islanders, and Hispanics are three times more likely than caucasians to suffer from end-stage renal (kidney) disease, often as the result of high blood pressure and other conditions that can damage the kidneys. Native Americans are four times more likely than Whites to suffer from diabetes. Some of the conditions that can result in organ failure are best treated through transplantation and others can only be treated by this life-saving procedure. In addition, similar blood type is essential for matching donors to recipients. Certain blood types are more common in ethnic minority populations. Hence, increasing the number of minority donors can increase the frequency of minority transplants.
This answer is based on source information from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Susan M. Lerner, MD on behalf of The Mount Sinai Health System

Surgery

Everyone should become educated on all the aspects of organ donation and consider becoming a donor because all populations are at risk for organ disease; however, there are a large number of minorities on the kidney transplant waiting list -- largely due to diabetes and hypertension -- and matches are more easily found among members of the same ethnic group, so it is important for more members of minority groups to donate so that more members of minority groups can become recipients.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Organ Transplants & Health Care

Organ transplants involve removing a diseased organ from an ill patient and replacing it with a healthy one from an altruistic deceased or living organ donor. To be eligible for an organ transplant, you must be evaluated by a medical team for suitability. If you decide to become an organ donor, it is important to inform your family and put those wishes in writing.

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