Current challenges of organ donation programs in syria

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Transplant Surgery
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• Renal transplantation is the primary treatment for end-stage renal disease.
• Kidney transplantation activities in Syria have been influenced by national legislation.
• The study examines donor characteristics and legislative impacts on kidney transplants in Syria.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze donor characteristics in Syrian kidney transplants.
• To assess the impact of Syrian legislation on kidney transplantation in public and private sectors.
• To understand the evolution of kidney transplantation activities in Syria.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of kidney transplant data in Syria over two decades.
• Focus on donor and recipient characteristics, particularly post-2003.
• Evaluation of trends before and after legislative changes in 2008.

Main Results:

• Kidney transplant rates increased from 7 to over 17 per million population between 2002 and 2007.
• Transplants performed on Syrian nationals abroad decreased from 65% to less than 2% by 2007.
• Legislation in 2008 restricted transplants to the public sector, increasing public hospital rates by 55% and establishing new centers.

Conclusions:

• Syria has not yet implemented the Istanbul Declaration or WHO guiding principles.
• Expansion of public sector kidney transplants is a crucial first step.
• Developing a deceased organ donation program is essential for addressing organ shortage.