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Pancreas Donation: A Lifeline for Those with Diabetes

The Pancreas: Regulating Blood Sugar

The pancreas is an elongated organ situated in the abdomen, responsible for producing a crucial hormone called insulin. Insulin plays a vital role in regulating blood sugar levels, preventing them from rising too high or dropping too low.

While kidney and liver transplants are more common, pancreas transplants are sometimes performed in conjunction with kidney transplants, as many individuals requiring a pancreas transplant also have advanced kidney disease.

The Transformative Power of Pancreas Donation

By choosing to donate your pancreas after death, you can make a life-altering difference for someone in need, potentially granting them a new lease on life.

Why Do Some People Need Pancreas Transplants?

Individuals with diabetes are unable to produce sufficient insulin or have insulin that is ineffective in controlling blood sugar levels. While most forms of diabetes can be managed with prescription insulin and/or oral medications, pancreas transplants may be considered for those with type 1 diabetes and end-stage kidney disease.

Pancreas transplants are typically recommended only for individuals who:

• Do not respond well to insulin therapy

• Have kidney disease leading to kidney failure

• Experience severe and frequent hypoglycemia, a condition where blood sugar drops to dangerously low levels, causing symptoms like dizziness and confusion

The Significance of Pancreas Donation

Your decision to donate your pancreas after death can significantly increase the chances of someone receiving a life-changing transplant they desperately need.

Eligibility for Pancreas Donation

Almost anyone can register to become a pancreas donor after death. There is no age limit, and very few health conditions preclude organ donation entirely.

Take the Next Step: Register Your Decision

If you are considering pancreas donation or donating other organs, please register your decision here:

[Organ Donation Registration Link]

Together, we can make a difference and give the gift of life to those in need.