Organ donation

Conservative MEPs have thrown their support behind proposals, voted on in Strasbourg (October 2003), to address the growing scandal of organ trafficking, resulting from the shortage of donated organs.

Scientific progress has made organ transplantation increasingly effective and available to many more patients.

Commenting on the issue, John Bowis MEP said:

“5,700 people in the UK are waiting for a transplant and fewer than 3,000 transplants are carried out each year. 400 patients needing organ transplants have died in the last year. There is growing concern that the gap between supply and demand of organs has fostered the birth of a lucrative but abhorrent trade in human organs. Two distinct aspects of this trade cause me particular concern. Firstly, the trafficking in human beings with a view to the removal of their organs. Secondly, the purchase of organs from donors in third countries by EU patients.

“The shortage of legally available organs is due in no small part to the lack of public information and understanding on the issue. Surveys regularly show that while the vast majority of citizens say they would be willing to donate their organs after death, only a small minority have formally expressed their consent via a donor card.

“For several years I have carried an organ donor card and carry it with me at all times. I encourage everyone to do the same and to register with the NHS Donor Campaign.”

You can register at www.uktransplant.org.uk or by calling the Organ Donor Line 0845 60 60 400.