Of the more than 87,000 people on the nation's growing transplant waiting list, more than 25 percent of them are black. African Americans as a group have a greater-than-average need for organ and tissue transplantation because of the relatively high incidence in this population of certain medical conditions that can cause permanent organ damage, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease and kidney disorders. Some experts believe patients fare better when both donor and recipient are from the same racial or ethnic group.
"The organ shortage in this country is a medical crisis, especially in the black community, where the need is greatest. Certainly, increased rates of African American organ donation can help ease this crisis by creating the opportunity for more transplants," said Velma Scantlebury, M.D., director of transplantation services at the University of South Alabama in Mobile and a member of The Links, Incorporated. "I am proud to join my Link sisters and fellow surgeons in this initiative to let people know what is happening in our community."
Linkages to Life is an ongoing, church-based program designed to demystify organ, tissue and bone marrow donation, emphasizing the critical need in the African American community. This year's initiative is the largest ever, with participating churches urging congregations to strongly consider organ donation.
"Seven years on dialysis took a serious toll on my life. I waited so long, I quit waiting,
'"/>
Contact: Carlisle Campbell
carlisle.campbell@ketchum.com
646-935-4054
Ketchum
4-Nov-2004