Stuff You Should Know Kidney Donation: You Could Be A Saint!
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Jun 2, 2022 Explore the compelling world of kidney donation, where living donors can save lives without significant complications. Discover shocking statistics about kidney disease and the long waitlist for transplants. Dive into the fascinating logistics of matching donors, including the innovative donor chain concept that can benefit multiple recipients. Uncover ethical dilemmas and discuss potential incentives for donations, like tax breaks. Hear heartwarming stories and the importance of altruism in transforming lives through this vital act.
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Kidney Disease Prevalence
- Around 15% of American adults, or 37 million people, suffer from chronic kidney disease.
- About 8,000 people die or become too sick for transplants yearly due to kidney shortages.
Living Kidney Donation
- Kidneys are unique organs; you can donate one while alive and live normally.
- The remaining kidney increases function to compensate, so kidney function decreases only by 25-35%.
Kidney Functions
- Kidneys filter 200 quarts of fluid daily, producing 2 quarts of waste (urine).
- They also regulate red blood cell production, convert vitamin D, and manage blood pressure.