Registering with more than one organ transplant center appears to work for wealthy patients over those with the most medical need, according to research presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2015. Researchers studied the national database of organ donors from 2000 to 2013 and found that patients who simultaneously listed at more than one center had higher transplant rates; lower death rates while waiting, were wealthier and were more likely to be insured. These findings suggest an advantage for wealthier patients who have the money for travel, temporary housing and other costs of multiple listing that are not covered [...]

A study by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases found that the health of kidney donors did not decline after a three-year period when compared to healthy non-donors. Researchers studied cholesterol levels, blood pressure and protein levels. Two sets of groups, kidney donors and healthy volunteers, participated in follow-up checkups for three years. Scientists found the levels of protein, cholesterol and blood pressure did not differ between the two groups. It was also found that kidney functions in the donor group improved over time, while the healthy group experienced age-related kidney function issues. While the area needs more research, [...]

Finding out that you need a new kidney can be devastating news. After the initial shock wears off, friends and family members graciously get screened and sometimes there is a good match, but sometimes there isn’t. It might seem like awful news, but focus back on the positives. You are still eligible to get a transplant and can still get an organ from a deceased donor. Oh wait there are still some new and exciting options available! Recently, pairing networks have been set up that give you even more options. The idea for creating these networks came from looking at the [...]