The latest annual statistics released today (12th July) by NHS Blood and Transplant reveal a 5% rise in the number of patients in the UK whose lives were either saved or improved through organ transplants in the previous year (2022/23).
According to the annual Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation Activity Report, a total of 4,532 patients received donated organs from both living and deceased donors in the UK during the last fiscal year (2022/23). This represents a 5% increase compared to the figures recorded in 2021/22.
In the North East and Yorkshire region, 525 patients underwent either a living or deceased organ transplant, a notable increase from the 468 patients in 2021/22. Presently, there are over 7,000 individuals on the active waiting list for transplants across the UK, including 911 patients from the North East and Yorkshire.
Medical professionals have cautioned that despite these positive developments, there are still missed opportunities for transplants due to families refusing to support organ donation. Consequently, residents of the North East and Yorkshire are strongly encouraged to register their organ donation decision on the NHS Organ Donor Register. Families are more likely to consent to donation when they are already aware of their relative’s wishes. Notably, 9 out of 10 families uphold their loved one’s decision to donate when it has been confirmed on the NHS Organ Donor Register.
In the previous year (2022/23), the North East and Yorkshire witnessed a total of 324 organ donors, including both living and deceased donors, in comparison to 311 donors in the preceding year.
Anthony Clarkson, Director of Organ Donation and Transplantation at NHS Blood and Transplant, said; “Over 50,000 people are alive in the UK today thanks to the life-saving gift of organ donation, and 525 people had a transplant in the North East and Yorkshire last year. But this wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of our incredible donors and their families who have given their support for donation at what is often the most difficult of times.
“We know that most people support organ donation in principle, and we have seen a steady increase in the number of people confirming their support for organ donation via the NHS Organ Donor Register, including 3.5 million in the North East and Yorkshire.
“However, we still need families to support their loved one’s decision and agree to donation when approached, which we know is most likely when they know that’s what they wanted. With only one per cent of people dying in circumstances where organ donation is possible, every donor is precious and has the potential to save up to nine lives.
“We urge everyone who supports organ donation to confirm their decision on the NHS Organ Donor Register. It is a simple action which only takes two minutes; but can ultimately save lives.”
To find out more, and confirm your support for organ donation, visit: www.organdonation.nhs.uk, call 0300 123 23 23 or use the NHS app.
