State of the Industry:

For more than five years, misinformation and false claims have cast an unfair shadow over our nation’s organ donation system, creating the illusion that it is broken and untrustworthy. What often gets overlooked is the reality: Organ donation in the U.S. has seen 13 consecutive years of growth, with a record-breaking 43,000 organs transplanted last year—each one representing a life saved through the generosity of donors and their families.

Misinformation fueled by conspiracy theories and hearsay is dangerous in any setting, but in this case, it has serious consequences. When falsehoods spread, they erode public trust, discouraging people from registering to be donors—which can cost lives. Alarmingly, national data shows a decline in donor registrations over the past three years, making it harder to save more lives through organ donation.

We urge those working to improve the donation and transplant system to reject reckless claims, think critically, and seek out the facts. For too long, the conversation and policy decisions surrounding donation have been shaped by voices that lack knowledge and expertise in the field. It’s time to refocus on truth, transparency, and the factual progress being made.

We remain committed to evidence-based discussions with lawmakers, the media, and the public, to strengthen and protect the organ donation system. Thank you for joining us in this important work—together, we can ensure more lives are saved and healed through the gift of organ and tissue donation.