Human organ and tissue transplantation in Pakistan: when a regulation makes a difference.

Bile, K.M.; Qureshi, J.A.R.H.; Rizvi, S.A.H.; Naqvi, S.A.A.; Usmani, A.Q.; Lashari, K.A.

Organ transplantation must be viewed in relation to the prevailing cultural, religious and socioeconomic conditions of a nation. Over the past two decades, Pakistan has emerged as one of the largest centres for commercial renal transplantation. Government efforts, supported by professional associations, civil society organizations and the media, along with World Health Organization technical assistance, have led to the development of legislation regulating this practice and curbing organ trade in conformity with international guidelines. Although only two years have passed since the enactment of the law, there is evidence that conditions have significantly improved, raising hopes for ethical and safe organ transplantation in Pakistan. This study reviews the salient features of the legislation and lists the foreseeable evolving challenges and opportunities.

PAKISTAN; ETHICS; LEGISLATION; TRANSPLANTATION of organs, tissues, etc.; WORLD Health Organization; RULES; CULTURAL values; SOCIOECONOMIC factors; STANDARDS

Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal, 2010, Vol 16, pS159

1020-3397

Academic Journal

10.26719/2010.16.supp.159