Kidney paired donation in developing countries: A global perspective

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Transplantation
• Public Health

Background:

• Kidney paired donation (KPD) facilitates living donor kidney transplantation by exchanging incompatible donor-recipient pairs.
• KPD programs are significantly less common in developing countries compared to developed nations.
• Limited literature and data exist on KPD implementation in most emerging economies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the fundamental principles of KPD.
• To examine the current status of KPD in developing countries.
• To discuss unique challenges and considerations for KPD expansion in these regions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of KPD principles and global program status.
• Analysis of existing KPD programs in developing nations.
• Identification of barriers and facilitators for KPD implementation.

Main Results:

• KPD programs are in early stages or absent in most developing nations.
• Existing KPD programs in developing countries differ substantially from those in developed countries.
• Successful KPD expansion may necessitate adopting innovations and best practices from established programs.

Conclusions:

• Expanding KPD in developing countries requires tailored strategies that address unique logistical and socioeconomic factors.
• International cooperation and endorsement from professional societies are crucial for sharing best practices.
• Adapting global KPD experiences to local contexts can significantly increase access to kidney transplantation worldwide.