Joining the Organ Donor Register
Almost 5,200 people in the UK are waiting for a kidney transplant. Yet, due to a shortage of organs, only around 3,300 transplants are carried out each year.
While the majority of people support organ donation, 4 in 10 say they still haven't gotten round to actually signing the Organ Donor Register.
81% of people on the organ waiting list are waiting for a kidney Figures from NHS Blood and Transplant as of 2 September 2016
If your kidneys fail, you may need to have a kidney transplant. The number of people being treated for kidney failure in the UK has risen every year since 2006. And, the number of patients presenting with kidney failure is increasing consistently by 4% each year. If these numbers continue to rise, the demand for organs will significantly outstrip supply.
Although the number of living donors is increasing, it remains essential that more people sign up to the Organ Donor Register. Those who choose to donate their organs could transform the lives of up to nine others when they die.
Remember, signing the Organ Donor Register is a personal choice, but you must have the conversation with your family and close friends to ensure they can give permission for your organs to be used in the event of your death. In the last five years, 500 families have declined the use of their loves one's organs despite them being on the Organ Donor Register.
Click the image for more information and tips on how to start the conversation.
For more information about joining the Organ Donor Register, visit the NHS Blood and Transplant website.
It takes two minutes to sign. Click the button below to get started: