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Common Organ Donation Myths

Organ donation and transplantation saves and improves lives every day, but some people are wary of becoming organ donors because of common myths about the process. Don't let the myths and urban legends about organ donation scare you away from becoming a donor. It's a regulated, safe and lifesaving practice. To become an organ donor, talk to your family about your wishes and sign up for it when you get your driver's license. When the words "Organ Donor" are on your license, it lets medical professionals use your organs in the event of your death.

  1. I'm Unfit to Donate

    • Some people think they're unfit to donate their organs for various reasons. If you're under 18 years of age, you may become an organ donor, but you must have your parent or legal guardian's consent. There is no age limit on donation either. Older people and senior citizens often still have functioning organs that could save lives. If you're of poor health or have diseases, some of your organs can still be used. Certain diseases like cancer and HIV do prevent you from being an organ donor.

    Only a Few Organs Can Be Donated

    • Another myth about organ donation is that only kidneys, livers and hearts can be transplanted, but this is not that case. Other organs that people need include lungs, the pancreas and even the intestines. Doctors can also transplant tissues like tendons, bones, skin and the eyes to improve or save peoples' lives.

    Doctors Won't Try to Save Me if I'm Injured

    • People worried about organ donation believe that if they become an organ donor, medical professionals and hospitals won't try to save their lives if they're injured. A doctor's job is to save people's lives. They try to save any injured person equally and without regard for condition or possible organ donation. If you die, doctors may keep you on life support to keep your organs viable, but not if your family disapproves.

    I Won't Be Able to Have a Proper Funeral

    • Surgeons can remove organs and tissues without drastically disfiguring the body. Deceased persons who donate organs don't always have closed-casket funeral services. Morticians can prepare the body as they would any deceased person, maintaining a normal and serene appearance for the funeral.

    It's Against My Religion

    • Some people believe that organ donation is against their religion. According to MayoClinic.com, organ donation is not against any major world religion. In fact, it is considered an act of goodwill and charity towards your fellow man. Helping others by saving their lives is approved by all world religions.

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