Organ and Tissue Donation Week, from November 3-9, has begun.

On this occasion, a statement was issued by the Ministry of Health.

“As in the rest of the world, November 3-9 is recognized as ‘Organ and Tissue Donation Week’ in our country” the statement noted.

“Organ transplantation is defined as the surgical procedure of removing an organ from a donor, with their consent, and placing it in a recipient. Organ and tissue transplants include kidneys, liver, pancreas, heart, lungs, intestines, cornea, inner ear, skin, bones, marrow, heart valves, and connective tissue” the statement explained.

“Since the enactment of the Cellular Tissue and Organ Transplant Law in 2014, kidney and heart transplants have been performed in our country since 2015, with 65 kidney and 5 heart transplants conducted to date. Of the kidney transplants, 33 were from cadavers, i.e., from individuals with brain death, while 32 were live transplants. Other donated organs have provided hope to patients in our motherland, Türkiye, through the National Coordination Centre (UKM)” the statement added.

“Every day, millions of people worldwide face the daunting prospect of organ failure. A poorly functioning heart, kidneys, or lungs can be life-threatening, with consequences impacting patients, their loved ones, and families” it said.

“The hope of these patients and their families rests on organ transplantation. Organ transplants are a medical miracle that can transform lives, offering a second chance, renewed health, and the opportunity to embrace loved ones again. However, at the heart of this remarkable achievement are the anonymous heroes who selflessly choose to become organ donors. A single decision can make an extraordinarily profound impact on the lives of our patients” the statement stressed.

Meanwhile, an event for volunteer registration for organ donation will be held in collaboration with the Presidency and the Ministry of Health on Tuesday, November 5 at 10am at the Presidency.

Additionally, through the efforts of the Association of Dialysis and Kidney Patients, a tree-planting event will be conducted in Dr. Zerrin Akalın Park in Lefkoşa on Wednesday, November 6, to draw attention to “organ donation.”

As part of Organ and Tissue Donation Week, on November 8, Dr. Salahi Ataç, working within the Ministry, will hold an informative seminar for students at the Türk Maarif College, while Dr. Ahmet Behlül will conduct a similar seminar at the Lefkoşa Turkish High School.

Since 2015, 981 people have volunteered for organ donation.

By registering as an organ donor at the Ministry of Health, you can have the chance to give hope to others and offer healing to those in desperate need.

Remember! Organ Donation is a Health Duty…