Who Can Be A Living Organ Donor? Know How Safe It Is To Part With A Body Part

Living organ donation in India is regulated by THOA. Eligible donors, mostly family members, undergo rigorous medical and psychological evaluations. Kidney and liver donations are most common.

To be eligible as a living donor, an individual must be over 18 years of age and in good physical and mental health.

Source : Canva

By Dr Gaurav Patel

Organ donation is often associated with loss, but living organ donation offers a chance to save lives while the donor is still alive. With the demand for organs far outstripping the supply, living donors play a crucial role in helping patients who might otherwise spend years waiting for a transplant. In India, living organ donation is regulated by the Transplantation of Human Organs Act (THOA), which ensures that donations are ethical, voluntary, and medically safe.

To be eligible as a living donor, an individual must be over 18 years of age and in good physical and mental health. They must be free from chronic illnesses such as cancer, diabetes, or heart disease. Most living donors are close relatives of the recipient — parents, siblings, children, or spouses. While unrelated donors are also allowed, such cases are carefully reviewed by an Authorization Committee to rule out any coercion or financial motives. All potential donors undergo thorough medical and psychological evaluations to determine compatibility and readiness for the procedure.

The most commonly donated organ from living donors is the kidney. Since humans can live with one healthy kidney, this form of donation is both practical and life-saving. Liver donation is the second most frequent, as the liver has a remarkable ability to regenerate; donors can safely give a portion of their liver, which will grow back over time. In rare cases, parts of the pancreas, lungs, or intestines may also be donated, although these are less common due to the complexity and risks involved.

How Safe Is Organ Donation?

Living organ donation is considered safe when conducted under professional medical care at accredited transplant centres. Donors are meticulously screened and supported throughout the process. While all surgeries carry some risk — including bleeding, infection, or complications from anaesthesia —advances in surgical techniques have greatly improved donor safety and recovery outcomes.

For kidney donors, there may be a slightly increased risk of high blood pressure or kidney-related issues over time, but with regular monitoring, most donors continue to live healthy, active lives. Liver donors may experience temporary fatigue or digestive disturbances during the recovery period.

Emotional health is just as important as physical recovery. Many donors report a deep sense of fulfillment, but they may also face anxiety or stress, especially if the recipient experiences complications. To address this, donors are provided with psychological support both before and after the donation.

Living organ donation is a powerful and selfless act that can transform lives. While it carries certain risks, it is largely safe when conducted responsibly and under proper medical guidance. As awareness grows and medical science continues to evolve, more lives can be saved.

Dr Gaurav Patel is Senior Consultant at Jupiter Hospital in Thane.

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]