April is National Donate Life Month

April showers help bring new life in the world of nature, so it's only fitting the month is recognized as National Donate Life Month, a time to encourage Americans to register as organ donors.

According to Donate Life America, people of all ages and medical histories can be considered potential donors. Ultimately, an organ donor's medical condition at time of death determines the decision.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says there are an estimated 75,000 people on the active waiting list for organ transplants, but only around 8,000 deceased organ donors each year.

And while living donors can provide about 6,000 donations per year, the transplant deficit is significant. Statistics show that every 10 minutes, someone is added to the national transplant waiting list. Officials believe continued education is essential to improving the gap.

The most commonly transplanted organs in the United States are the kidney, liver, heart, lungs, pancreas and intestine.

Commonly transplanted tissues include bones, tendons, skin, corneas, heart valves and blood vessels.

How does the transplant system work in the United States? Hospitals are required to have written agreements with organizations that coordinate transplants through a network of about 60 groups.

This system, overseen by the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, has policies in place to govern the processes.

If you have questions about organ and/or tissue donations, call 888-894-6361 Monday through Friday, or visit www.donatelife.net or https://optn.transplant.hrsa.gov.

Healthy Habits 2017 is a partnership among Cabell Huntington Hospital, Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine and St. Mary's Medical Center. Join our conversation and "like" us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/healthyhabitshuntington.