Australian youth urged to become organ donors

By Dr. Ananya Mandal, MDJun 24 2010

New research has shown that many young Australians are not having their wishes to donate their organs honored because they fail to discuss these issues with their families beforehand. As a remedial measure Australia's chief medical officer, Professor Jim Bishop has urged more of the young population to come forth about their wishes to donate their organs after death.

This study was conducted and reported by the Organ and Tissue Authority and found that although 77 percent of Australians are willing to donate only 58 percent of families consent due to lack of communication. Of the 2,400 people surveyed the youth had the lowest awareness regarding organ donation, the study showed. Awareness regarding mandatory family consent was also absent in the young.

Professor Bishop said this Thursday at the 2010 Annual Transplantation Society of Australia and New Zealand conference in Canberra, “Just 55 per cent of 18- to 29-year-olds believe that their donation wishes are known by family members, compared with 71 per cent of those aged 30 and above.” He also said that Australia has a world class reputation for successful transplant outcomes. However as of June 2 this year 1,704 Australians are waiting for someone to donate organs he said. A single donation can save up to ten lives he pointed out.

He explained that “Last year, less than half of the demand for organs was able to be met.” Families could help raise donation rates he said. Speaking at the meet he also said, “The commonwealth government's current DonateLife national advertising campaign encourages families to hold memorable discussions with a clear outcome - knowing each other's donation wishes - and I urge young people in particular to have that conversation with their families.”