Andhra Pradesh sets national benchmark in organ donation

Andhra Pradesh has recorded its highest-ever number of deceased organ donors, strengthening its position as a national leader in organ donation. In 2025, families of 93 deceased persons consented to donate organs, helping 301 patients across India receive life-saving transplants through the Jeevandan programme.

The growth marks a dramatic turnaround over the past five years. In 2020, the State had reported only two deceased donors. By 2025, the figure had risen sharply to 93. Between 2020 and 2025, a total of 244 deceased donors contributed 795 organs.

Most donors were between 21 and 60 years of age. Families of several elderly donors also came forward. Of the total donors during this period, 175 were men, and 69 were women, according to official data.

Live organ transplantation has expanded alongside deceased donation. Over the last five years, Andhra Pradesh carried out 1,697 kidney transplants and 43 liver transplants. Kidney transplants increased steadily from 122 in 2020 to 339 in 2025.

Liver transplants, though fewer in number, also showed growth. From zero procedures in 2020, the State recorded a peak of 14 liver transplants in 2024, followed by seven in 2025.

Health officials attributed the steady rise to better coordination among hospitals, improved transplant infrastructure, and continuous public awareness campaigns. They stressed that deceased donation is vital for organs such as the heart, which cannot be donated by living persons.

The Jeevandan programme now forms the backbone of the State’s transplant system, ensuring timely organ retrieval and fair allocation. Dr. K. Rambabu, Director of VIMS and State coordinator for Jeevandan, said Andhra Pradesh plans to build on this momentum in 2026 by reducing waiting lists and expanding access to transplants, reflecting both medical progress and growing public trust.