Myths & FAQs

Some Common Myths & Frequently Asked Question About Organ Donation Answered.

Myth 1: I am too old to be a donor

Fact : In the case of cornea and some other tissue, age does not matter. For other organs, it is the person’s physical condition, not age, which is the deciding factor. Specialist health care professionals decide in each case which organs and tissue are suitable. Organs and tissue from people in their 70s and 80s are transplanted successfully.

Myth 2: I cannot be a donor because I have an existing medical condition

Fact : Having a medical condition does not necessarily prevent a person from becoming an organ or tissue donor. The decision about whether some or all organs or tissue are suitable for transplant is made by a healthcare professional, taking into account your medical history.

Myth 3: My organs might not go to those who have waited the longest or are the neediest

Fact : The rich and famous are not given priority when it comes to allocating organs. It may seem that way because of the amount of publicity generated when celebrities receive a transplant, but they are treated no differently from anyone else. In fact, what really counts is the severity of illness, time spent waiting, blood type and other important medical information. The organ allocation system is blind to wealth or social status. Factors such as race, gender, age, income, celebrity status are never considered when determining organ recipients.

Myth 4: If I donate my organs it will cause delays to my funeral arrangements

Fact : Yes, there is a possibility. However, given the altruistic nature of this donation, families usually accept this and take it as part of the process of donation.

Myth 5: Organ donation will leave my body disfigured

Fact : Organs are always removed with the greatest of care and respect for the person. This takes place in a normal operation theater under sterile conditions by a team of specialized doctors. Afterwards, the surgical incision is carefully closed and covered by a dressing in the normal way. The operation is carried out by specialist health care professionals who always ensure that the donor is treated with the utmost respect and dignity.

Myth 6: My family will not get to see my body after donation

Fact : Families are given the opportunity to spend time with their loved ones after the operation, if they wish. Arrangements for viewing the body after donation are the same as after any death.

Myth 7: If I am declared brain dead, I might still have some chances of coming back to life

Fact : No. Brain death is an irreversible condition that results from a severe brain injury or hemorrhage which causes all the brain activity to stop. When an individual is declared brain dead, a ventilator keeps the body supplied with oxygen, which enables the heart to continue to beat and circulate blood. Once the ventilator is turned off, the heart will stop beating within a few minutes.

Myth 8: My decision to be an organ donor will affect my medical care

Fact : No. It is the duty of a doctor to look after a patient and make every possible effort to save the patient’s life. This is their first duty. If, despite their efforts, the patient dies, organ and tissue donation can then be considered, but it would be implemented only after the family of the patient gives consent.

Myth 9: My religion does not support the idea of organ donation

Fact : None of the major religions in India object to organ donation and transplantation. If you have any doubts, you should discuss them with your spiritual or religious adviser.

Myth 10: It is enough if I have a donor card

Fact : No. Just having a donor card is not enough. You need to carry it at all times and also inform your relatives about your wishes so that they honour your wish at the moment of truth.

Myth 11: Once I become an organ donor I can never change my mind

Fact : You always have the option to change your mind. You can withdraw your registration, tear up your organ donor card and let your family know that you have changed your mind.