Organ donation:Don't let these myths deter you

Organs are removed in the same fashion as in any regular surgery. The procedure of removing organs is done with utmost dignity and respect, and the surgery marks are covered.

There are only a few medical conditions that can keep you from organ donation. You need to only meet the medical criteria. If you are ailing with a medical condition, don't disqualify yourself without discussing the prospects with a doctor. Sometimes, while certain organs may not be suitable for transplantation, others may still be liable for donation.

Earlier, kidney donation wasn’t allowed outside of the family. But now, you can help a distant family member, friend or even a complete stranger. However, to be a living donor, you will have to undergo extensive questioning and sometimes, testing before you can go ahead.

Age is only a number. You are never neither too old for donating organs nor is there any cut-off age criterion in the law. If you meet the medical criteria for organ donation, you can very well donate.

In most countries, the legal age for organ donation is above 18 years. However, your parents can authorize if you wish to donate an organ. The needy can be children who require organs that are smaller than those of adult donors.

Organ donation is a noble act. You or your family will never be charged for organ donation. The cost for organ removal is borne by the transplant recipient.

Patient privacy is maintained for both donor families and recipients. Any information about the donor is released to the recipient only with the consent of a donor.

Without a donor nomination, you can’t donate. Next of kin is a legally authorized representative to take the decision if you express a desire for organ donation.

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