Tissue Donation

This page was written by Shelley Ensz and has not yet been medically edited. See disclaimer.

Overview of Tissue Donation
Religion and Tissue Donation
International Tissue Donation

United Kingdom (UK)
U.S. Tissue Donation

Overview of Tissue Donation

Postmortem tissue donation means willing or donating your tissues for use in transplants or medical research, upon your death.

Postmortem means "done, occurring, or collected after death."

Tissues , in this instance, refers to such things as eyes, bones, ligaments, tendons, skin, and heart valves.

Organs , in this context, means internal body organs such as heart, lungs, kidneys, pancreas, and liver.

Most people donate their organs and tissues for transplant use; however some people donate just their organs or their tissues, and in most countries you have the option of excluding certain organs or tissues. (Also see: Organ Donation)

Anyone who does not have the HIV virus (the AIDS virus) can usually become an organ or tissue donor, even people with hepatitis and cancer.

Should my age or health condition influence my decision to become an organ donor? No. While medical history and age are factors, most people can donate. People with diabetes, hepatitis, and cancer sometimes can donate their organs. The only individuals who cannot donate are those who test positive for the HIV virus. HealthFirst, Florida.

Religions and Tissue Donation

Religious Views on Organ Donation and Transplantation. Most religions support organ and tissue donation as a charitable act of love and giving. This site lists the position of over two dozen major world religions. Notable exceptions are Gypsies and Shinto. Jehovah's Witnesses require that all organs and tissues be completely drained of blood. OrganDonor.gov.

International Tissue Donation

Organ and tissue donation policies and procedures vary from country to country, so it is important to know the laws in your country. Some countries have compulsory donations, while others may require legal proof of your intent to donate your organs or tissues before you die. Nearly all major religions approve of organ and tissue donations.

United Kingdom

How to Become a Donor. Today more than 6,000 people in the UK are waiting for an organ transplant that could save or dramatically improve their life. There is a desperate need for more donors. Last year nearly 400 people died while waiting for a transplant. UK Transplant.

United States Tissue Donation

How can you become an organ donor? According to the Uniform Anatomical Gift Act, anyone who is 18 or older and of sound mind, may become a donor when he or she dies. Minors may become donors with parent or guardian’s consent. National Kidney Foundation.

Is the donor or the donor’s family responsible for any of the costs associated with organ and tissue donation? No. The donor and the donor’s family do not pay for any of the expenses associated with organ and tissue donation. National Kidney Foundation.