http://www.edqm.eu/en/European-Day-for-Organ-Donation-and-Transplantation-1223.htmlEuropean Day for Organ Donation & Transplantation
22 October 2011
Venue: Geneva, Switzerland
Join the Council of Europe to celebrate European Day for Organ Donation & Transplantation (EODD)
For 2011, Switzerland has offered to host this event, which will take place in Geneva on Saturday, October 22, 2011.
The need for organ transplants is increasing worldwide. The ongoing lack of available organs has resulted in an increase in the number of patients on the waiting list. In the European Union (EU) alone, 50,000 people are waiting for organ donations. Each day, on average, 12 people die while waiting for a transplant.
The idea behind this Day, initiated by the Council of Europe, is to help a different member state each year to encourage debate and provide information on organ donation and transplantation, legal and medical measures so that each person can decide on donation and make their wishes known to their family.
It is about helping member states to promote organ donation and transplantation, and mobilise hospitals and professionals on the identification of potential donors. It is also an opportunity to honour all organ donors and their families and to thank transplantation professionals throughout Europe whose hard work helps saving lives and improving the quality of life of many people.
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