National body formed to encourage cadaver organ donation

Mumbai, June 14 (UNI) The two-day national meet on organ donation held at the Tata Memorial Hospital recently has culminated in the formation of a 'National Deceased Donor Transplantation Network', a national body to create awareness for organ donation in India.

For the first time, Non Governmental Organisations (NGO's) from West Bengal, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Orissa, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala have come together and formed a body to address the issues of organ donation.

Dr Vatsala Trivedi, General Secretary Zonal Transplant Co-ordination Centre (ZTCC), Mumbai has been elected Chairperson, whereas, Brojo Roy, General Secretary, Ganadarpan of Kolkata is the General Secretary of the National Deceased Donor Transplantation Network.

Elated at being elected as the Chairperson of new National Body, Dr Trivedi said, '' This is a first step albeit in the right direction and I am glad that it is at a national level. There is a long way to go but we are sure that we will make headway''.

''The subject of organ donation is steeped in too many issues at various levels and it can only be dealt with if everyone comes together; this body aims to do just that,'' she added.

Further, Dr Trivedi pin-pointed that the committee is also studying to bring various organizations and individuals together to work to promote cadaveric organ and tissue donation thereby minimizing the need for living solid organ donation.

In addition, efforts are being made to bring all hospitals across the country on one platform, allowing them to share resources and information, Dr Trivedi stressed.

She indicated that considering the vital role of communication and awareness, the body will be taking their message to the masses and hospitals via street plays, a website, promotional literature etc.

Dr Trivedi observed that a data bank must be formed to assist in understanding the progress of patients. Hospital awareness and networking to allow for transplant, retrieval and storage of organs.

Meanwhile, the seven member working committee has urged the Union Health Ministry officials to expedite amendments to Transplantation of Human Organs Act of 1994.

UNI