KARACHI:
Each year, over 150,000 people lose their lives in Pakistan due to organ failure, with 40,000 succumbing to kidney failure and 70,000 to liver failure. Unlike some other Islamic countries such as Iran and Saudi Arabia, Pakistan has not fully embraced organ donation. Despite the enactment of legislation in 2010 aimed at regulating organ transplantation, there is a noticeable lack of enthusiasm for organ donation in our society.
To address this issue, authorities must intensify efforts to promote organ donation, aligning with the principles laid out in the 2010 legislation. A comprehensive public awareness campaign is crucial to eliminate myths, educate the public about the organ donation process and highlight its life-saving impact. Healthcare professionals, clerics and community leaders can play a pivotal role in shaping public opinion and dispelling any misconceptions related to organ donation. Collaborative efforts involving the public and private sectors are essential to create an environment where donating organs is viewed as a commendable and life-affirming deed.
Effective communication of organ transplant success stories, ethical considerations from diverse religious perspectives and the broader positive societal impact are crucial for inspiring a positive shift in attitudes. The urgent demand for organs in Pakistan requires collective efforts to promote a culture of donation aligned with our values and ethical principles. Coordinated efforts, increased public awareness and proactive measures by authorities can significantly reduce unnecessary loss of lives due to organ failure.
Abeera Waseem
Karachi
Published in The Express Tribune, December 7th, 2023.
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