World Organ Donation Day observed on 13 August is dedicated to raising awareness about the critical need for organ donors and promote donor registration.
Organ Donation Day: History and significance
The history of organ transplantation dates back to the early 20th century, with significant milestones marking its evolution. The first successful kidney transplant occurred in 1954, when Ronald Lee Herrick donated a kidney to his identical twin brother, a groundbreaking procedure performed by Dr. Joseph Murray.
This landmark event paved the way for advancements in organ transplantation, leading to the successful transplantation of hearts, livers, lungs, and other organs.
In India, a significant milestone in organ donation history occurred on August 3, 1994, when the country witnessed its first successful deceased donor heart transplant, which marked a pivotal moment in India’s organ transplantation journey and laid the groundwork for future advancements in the field.
Initially, India celebrated National Organ Donation Day on November 27, starting in 2010 under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare by the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO).
However, in 2023, the
observance was shifted to August 3 to commemorate the anniversary of India’s
first successful deceased donor heart transplant. In essence, World Organ
Donation Day addresses these misconceptions, providing accurate information,
and encouraging informed decisions.
