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Myths About Organ Donation

There are many myths about organ donation. Most stem from lack of knowledge. There are myths about which organs can be used, how old you must be and what happens if you are admitted to an emergency room as an organ donor.

  1. Organs Used

    • Most organs of the body including the brain, lungs, heart, liver and intestines can be used. Tissue such as the eyes, skin, veins, muscle, tendons and bone can also be used.

    Proper Notifications

    • To be an organ donor, you must fill out an organ donor form. You must also advise your immediate family and doctor about your decision so that your wishes are carried out.

    Doctors

    • Doctors do not know if you are an organ donor when you first get into an emergency room so you are treated no differently than any other patient. All organ donors are put on a list, which is followed regardless of social or financial status for both donors and recipients.

    Age

    • Age is not a factor in organ donation. Persons under 18 need parental consent to donate organs.

    Health

    • Health of individual organs is not a deciding factor in organ donation. The viability of all organs is considered when organs are harvested from a donor.

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