Minister Memişoğlu: Turkey performs 5,000 organ transplants annually

Health Minister Kemal Memişoğlu emphasized the significance of surgery and advancements in organ transplantation during his speech at the 15th Congress of the Turkish Organ Transplantation Coordination Association "Transplantation'24" held at a hotel. He reported that Turkey performs over 5,000 organ transplants annually, including 1,700 liver transplants, across 76 kidney, 52 liver, 15 heart, and 2 lung transplant centers.

Memişoğlu noted, "Turkey has become a hub for organ transplants, successfully conducting cross-matches that are not feasible in many parts of the world. This achievement is due to significant dedication and hard work." He stressed the need for Turkey to evolve into a producer of medical technology, along with providing health services, to enhance the management of healthcare knowledge and increase social and economic strength.

The Minister acknowledged the insufficient number of cadaver donations in Turkey, attributing it to a lack of effective communication. He stated, "In a society like ours, which is highly altruistic, the low number of organ donors is due to our failure to explain the importance of donation adequately." He highlighted the necessity for a community that embraces the value of life and encourages organ donation.

Governor Kemal Çeber mentioned that healthcare services in the city are at a commendable level and will continue to improve. Mayor Fatma Şahin reiterated that doctors are always present during people's most challenging times.

Prof. Dr. Uluğ Eldegez, President of the Turkish Organ Transplantation Coordination Association (TONKKD), and Prof. Dr. Sacid Çoban, Director of the GAÜN Kidney Transplant Center, presented plaques to Minister Memişoğlu.