Organ, tissue and cell transplantation is one of the great medical success stories of modern times. In many cases, it is the only life-saving treatment for patients with end-stage organ failure, devastating burn injuries or blood cancers, and in many others it can significantly improve the quality of life of patients, for example by restoring their sight or helping them regain mobility.
Throughout Europe, the need for donors remains unfulfilled and too many patients are dying waiting for an organ transplant. That is why, this year too, on the occasion of the European Day for Organ Donation and Transplantation (EODD), the European Directorate for the Quality of Medicines & HealthCare (EDQM) calls on everyone to consider organ, tissue and cell donation and make their wishes known to their loved ones.
Donation can make a real difference and alleviate the suffering of patients on waiting lists: one single donor can save up to eight lives through organ donation and save or improve more than 100 lives through tissue donation. EODD is an opportunity to discuss organ, tissue and cell donation and transplantation and reflect upon their importance, as well as to thank donors, their families and all the health professionals involved.
This year, celebrations for the 21st edition of EODD, on 9 October, will take place online due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Remember this year’s slogan: “JustSayYes” – Let people know you are a donor.
Check out the EODD 2021 web page and the EDQM Facebook page, and download the EODD social media banners to show your support for the cause!
Since 1996, EODD has contributed to the steady increase in the number of donors in Europe by spreading the message among the general public on the importance of organ, tissue and cell donation and transplantation/human application. EODD is organised in line with the mission of the European Committee on Organ Transplantation (CD-P-TO), the steering committee in charge of organ transplantation activities at the EDQM/Council of Europe, which includes raising awareness on organ, tissue and cell donation for transplantation.
The work of the CD-P-TO also focuses on elaborating ethical, quality and safety standards in the field of transplantation, promoting the principle of non-commercialisation of organ, tissue and cell donation, and strengthening measures to avoid trafficking.
