Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

Can The New Weight Loss Drugs Really Keep The Weight Off?

<span>Weight loss</span> medications have been around for decades, but the latest generation of drugs has created a frenzy like never before. Initially developed to manage diabetes, medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound have been repurposed for weight loss, with some users reporting dramatic results. These GLP-1 receptor agonists work by mimicking gut hormones that help regulate appetite and insulin levels. As their popularity reaches stratospheric levels, questions are now being asked: Are the drugs a breakthrough, or is the situation more complex?

These medications work by making people feel fuller sooner and for a longer period of time. Research indicates that people on Wegovy (semaglutide) lose about 12% of their weight, while those on Zepbound (tirzepatide) lose about 18%. Besides losing weight, these drugs also appear to have other health benefits like lowering blood pressure, decreasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes, and even potentially treating neurological disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Although these medications have promising outcomes, they do carry potential risks. The most prevalent side effects are nausea, vomiting, fatigue, diarrhea, and constipation. Although most individuals adapt to the medication with time, some develop severe reactions. There have been lawsuits filed against pharmaceutical firms by patients who suffered serious gastrointestinal disorders like stomach paralysis and bowel blockages.

The other increasing concern is the psychological one. Patients are urged to stay on the drugs even in the face of adverse effects, which makes them have terrible experiences that degrade their quality of life. Consequently, a large percentage of users drop the medication within several months. A recent survey in the journal Obesity revealed that 19% of people put on these medications were still on them after a year.

<span>GLP-1 medications</span> have been approved by the FDA only for obese patients (BMI of 30 or higher) or those with weight-related conditions such as hypertension. Yet, high demand has resulted in off-label prescribing on a large scale, with people getting them even if they do not qualify. This demand has created national shortages, and the FDA has permitted compounding pharmacies to make generic versions.

Even though they work, access is not an option for most. Insurance only covers them minimally, and Medicare will only pay for weight loss medication if it is for diabetes. With the average cost being $1,300 per month, people from low-income communities, statistically with higher obesity rates, can't afford these drugs.

<h2><span rel="noindex">Weight Loss Drugs</span>: Expectations vs. Reality</h2>

Although these drugs are beneficial for one's health, their use in cosmetic weight loss has also come into limelight. Social media is full of sensationalized "before and after" pictures, which create unrealistic hopes. But the so-called "<span>Ozempic face</span>" has been a harsh reminder that weight loss is not necessarily translated into a healthier and younger looks.

Do You Have to Take These Weight Loss Medications Forever?

One of the most contentious issues with GLP-1 medications is the long-term commitment they necessitate. Recent studies suggest that those who stop taking these medications tend to regain the weight lost. The human body, evolved over time, is programmed to store fat effectively—rendering long-term weight loss a life-long struggle for many.

While lifestyle changes like diet and exercise are crucial aspects of weight control, they're usually not enough by themselves for people with obesity. The question is: Are these drugs a short-term solution, or are they a lifetime solution? And more so, should patients be required to continue taking them for the rest of their lives to keep the weight off?

<h2>Do You Have to Take These Weight Loss Drugs Forever?</h2>

GLP-1 drugs have unquestionably revolutionized the weight loss scenario, giving hope to millions. Yet, they are far from a silver bullet. The cost, access concerns, side effects, and long-term dependence are all valid issues. Although they do possess undeniable advantages, their efficacy and sustainability are based on the patient's capacity to follow the regimen and accept possible risks.

Before they decide, people need to balance the pros against the cons and seek the advice of healthcare professionals to see whether these drugs fit into their health agenda. As science continues to develop, the future of GLP-1s is potentially even brighter—but for now, they are both a revolutionary solution and a highly contentious issue in the battle against obesity.

<h2>What's Next for Weight Loss Drugs Worldwide?</h2>

While pharmaceutical manufacturers continue to innovate and perfect weight loss drugs, future research will be what decides their long-term effect. US pharma major Eli Lilly launched the much-awaited diabetes and obesity management drug Mounjaro in India on Thursday at one-fifth of the US price. With obesity rates rising in India, the market for weight loss drugs has grown exponentially in the country. Novo Nordisk's oral semaglutide tablet, Rybelsus, launched in India in January 2022, has already captured nearly 65 per cent of the anti-obesity drugs market, which includes other weight-loss medications such as dulaglutide, orlistat, and liraglutide.

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ozempic face

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Weight loss medications have been around for decades, but the latest generation of drugs has created a frenzy like never before. Initially developed to manage diabetes, medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound have been repurposed for weight loss, with some users reporting dramatic results. These GLP-1 receptor agonists work by mimicking gut hormones that help regulate appetite and insulin levels. As their popularity reaches stratospheric levels, questions are now being asked: Are the drugs a breakthrough, or is the situation more complex?These medications work by making people feel fuller sooner and for a longer period of time. Research indicates that people on Wegovy (semaglutide) lose about 12% of their weight, while those on Zepbound (tirzepatide) lose about 18%. Besides losing weight, these drugs also appear to have other health benefits like lowering blood pressure, decreasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes, and even potentially treating neurological disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.Although these medications have promising outcomes, they do carry potential risks. The most prevalent side effects are nausea, vomiting, fatigue, diarrhea, and constipation. Although most individuals adapt to the medication with time, some develop severe reactions. There have been lawsuits filed against pharmaceutical firms by patients who suffered serious gastrointestinal disorders like stomach paralysis and bowel blockages.The other increasing concern is the psychological one. Patients are urged to stay on the drugs even in the face of adverse effects, which makes them have terrible experiences that degrade their quality of life. Consequently, a large percentage of users drop the medication within several months. A recent survey in the journal Obesity revealed that 19% of people put on these medications were still on them after a year.GLP-1 medications have been approved by the FDA only for obese patients (BMI of 30 or higher) or those with weight-related conditions such as hypertension. Yet, high demand has resulted in off-label prescribing on a large scale, with people getting them even if they do not qualify. This demand has created national shortages, and the FDA has permitted compounding pharmacies to make generic versions.Even though they work, access is not an option for most. Insurance only covers them minimally, and Medicare will only pay for weight loss medication if it is for diabetes. With the average cost being $1,300 per month, people from low-income communities, statistically with higher obesity rates, can't afford these drugs.Weight Loss Drugs: Expectations vs. RealityAlthough these drugs are beneficial for one's health, their use in cosmetic weight loss has also come into limelight. Social media is full of sensationalized "before and after" pictures, which create unrealistic hopes. But the so-called "Ozempic face" has been a harsh reminder that weight loss is not necessarily translated into a healthier and younger looks.Do You Have to Take These Weight Loss Medications Forever?One of the most contentious issues with GLP-1 medications is the long-term commitment they necessitate. Recent studies suggest that those who stop taking these medications tend to regain the weight lost. The human body, evolved over time, is programmed to store fat effectively—rendering long-term weight loss a life-long struggle for many.While lifestyle changes like diet and exercise are crucial aspects of weight control, they're usually not enough by themselves for people with obesity. The question is: Are these drugs a short-term solution, or are they a lifetime solution? And more so, should patients be required to continue taking them for the rest of their lives to keep the weight off?Do You Have to Take These Weight Loss Drugs Forever?GLP-1 drugs have unquestionably revolutionized the weight loss scenario, giving hope to millions. Yet, they are far from a silver bullet. The cost, access concerns, side effects, and long-term dependence are all valid issues. Although they do possess undeniable advantages, their efficacy and sustainability are based on the patient's capacity to follow the regimen and accept possible risks.Before they decide, people need to balance the pros against the cons and seek the advice of healthcare professionals to see whether these drugs fit into their health agenda. As science continues to develop, the future of GLP-1s is potentially even brighter—but for now, they are both a revolutionary solution and a highly contentious issue in the battle against obesity.What's Next for Weight Loss Drugs Worldwide?While pharmaceutical manufacturers continue to innovate and perfect weight loss drugs, future research will be what decides their long-term effect. US pharma major Eli Lilly launched the much-awaited diabetes and obesity management drug Mounjaro in India on Thursday at one-fifth of the US price. With obesity rates rising in India, the market for weight loss drugs has grown exponentially in the country. Novo Nordisk's oral semaglutide tablet, Rybelsus, launched in India in January 2022, has already captured nearly 65 per cent of the anti-obesity drugs market, which includes other weight-loss medications such as dulaglutide, orlistat, and liraglutide.

can the new weight loss drugs really keep the weight off?

Supriya Ramesh

Credits: Canva

Breakthrough Vaccine Could Stop Pancreatic Cancer From Returning- Here Are 6 Signs of The Deadly Disease

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A new study from scientists in Miami has raised a big red flag saying that heavy <span>alcohol consumption</span> does not just damage your liver; it could also be quietly harming your <span>pancreas</span> and paving the way to one of the <span>most lethal cancers in the world</span>. While nobody talks much about this organ, it keeps your show running. Sitting behind the stomach, the pancreas organ produces the digestive enzymes that help you break down food, as well as the hormones that regulate your blood sugar. 

The fresh study, published in Cellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology, sheds new light on how alcohol-induced inflammation accelerates the development of the deadly disease. 

The Miami researchers discovered that alcohol, in high quantities, can damage the very pancreatic cells that make those enzymes. This injury sparks inflammation that can smoulder away until it creates precancerous lesions. Left unchecked, these can evolve into <span>pancreatic cancer</span>, a disease with a grim reputation.

Not everyone who enjoys a tipple is destined for cancer. For the disease to develop, researchers found that a mutation in a <span>gene called Ras</span>, which controls cell growth, must also be present. But when alcohol was paired with a pro-inflammatory molecule in experiments, the effects mimicked alcohol-induced pancreatitis, complete with inflammation, lesions, and cancer.

The breakthrough? By disabling a gene called <span>CREB</span>, the scientists stopped both precancerous and cancerous lesions from forming. In other words, CREB seems to hold the keys to either the safe or self-destruct modes for your pancreas.

Pancreatic cancer kills over 9,000 people in the UK and more than 52,000 in the US every year. The five-year survival rate? About 10 to 12 per cent, among the lowest of any cancer. To make matters worse, cases are rising among younger people, though deaths have not yet spiked.

<strong>What makes this cancer so deadly is its silence. Symptoms rarely appear until it has already spread, and by then, treatment options are limited.</strong>

<h3>The stealthy symptoms you should not ignore</h3>

<ul><li>Belly pain that radiates to your back</li><li>Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite</li><li><span rel="noindex">Jaundice</span> (yellowing of the skin and eyes)</li><li>Pale or floating stools, dark urine, and itching</li><li>New or worsening <span rel="noindex">diabetes</span></li><li>Fatigue or weakness</li></ul>

By the time these appear, the disease is often in an advanced stage, which is why prevention is key.

<h3>Defining ‘<span rel="noindex">heavy drinking</span>’</h3>

The study defined heavy alcohol use as eight or more drinks per week for women and 15 or more for men. Over months and years, that adds up to a consistent assault on your pancreas.

<h3>Complications that make life harder</h3>

Pancreatic cancer isn’t just fatal; it can also cause a series of painful, exhausting complications:

<ul><li>Weight loss as the body struggles to absorb nutrients</li><li>Blocked bile ducts leading to jaundice</li><li>Abdominal pain from tumors pressing on nerves</li><li>Bowel obstructions</li><li>Painful swelling in the limbs due to blood clots</li></ul>

Reportedly, managing these often requires procedures like stent placements or even nerve-block injections, adding more physical and emotional strain to an already heavy burden.

<ul><li>Cut back on alcohol: You do not need to go teetotal overnight, but trimming down your weekly intake could protect your pancreas.</li><li>Quit smoking: Tobacco and alcohol together are really bad.</li><li>Maintain a healthy weight: Extra body fat increases inflammation and strains your pancreas.</li><li>Eat for your pancreas: Load your plate with vegetables, fruit, and whole grains, and keep processed foods to a minimum.</li><li>Stay active: Exercise helps manage weight and lowers inflammation.</li></ul>

pancreatic cancer

deadliest cancers

pancreas

most lethal cancers in the world

alcohol consumption

gene called Ras

CREB

jaundice

diabetes

heavy drinking

A new study from scientists in Miami has raised a big red flag saying that heavy alcohol consumption does not just damage your liver; it could also be quietly harming your pancreas and paving the way to one of the most lethal cancers in the world. While nobody talks much about this organ, it keeps your show running. Sitting behind the stomach, the pancreas organ produces the digestive enzymes that help you break down food, as well as the hormones that regulate your blood sugar. The fresh study, published in Cellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology, sheds new light on how alcohol-induced inflammation accelerates the development of the deadly disease. The Miami researchers discovered that alcohol, in high quantities, can damage the very pancreatic cells that make those enzymes. This injury sparks inflammation that can smoulder away until it creates precancerous lesions. Left unchecked, these can evolve into pancreatic cancer, a disease with a grim reputation.A gene that could save the dayNot everyone who enjoys a tipple is destined for cancer. For the disease to develop, researchers found that a mutation in a gene called Ras, which controls cell growth, must also be present. But when alcohol was paired with a pro-inflammatory molecule in experiments, the effects mimicked alcohol-induced pancreatitis, complete with inflammation, lesions, and cancer.The breakthrough? By disabling a gene called CREB, the scientists stopped both precancerous and cancerous lesions from forming. In other words, CREB seems to hold the keys to either the safe or self-destruct modes for your pancreas.Why this matters more nowPancreatic cancer kills over 9,000 people in the UK and more than 52,000 in the US every year. The five-year survival rate? About 10 to 12 per cent, among the lowest of any cancer. To make matters worse, cases are rising among younger people, though deaths have not yet spiked.What makes this cancer so deadly is its silence. Symptoms rarely appear until it has already spread, and by then, treatment options are limited.The stealthy symptoms you should not ignoreBelly pain that radiates to your backUnexplained weight loss and loss of appetiteJaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)Pale or floating stools, dark urine, and itchingNew or worsening diabetesFatigue or weaknessBy the time these appear, the disease is often in an advanced stage, which is why prevention is key.Defining ‘heavy drinking’The study defined heavy alcohol use as eight or more drinks per week for women and 15 or more for men. Over months and years, that adds up to a consistent assault on your pancreas.Complications that make life harderPancreatic cancer isn’t just fatal; it can also cause a series of painful, exhausting complications:Weight loss as the body struggles to absorb nutrientsBlocked bile ducts leading to jaundiceAbdominal pain from tumors pressing on nervesBowel obstructionsPainful swelling in the limbs due to blood clotsReportedly, managing these often requires procedures like stent placements or even nerve-block injections, adding more physical and emotional strain to an already heavy burden.How to reduce the risk Cut back on alcohol: You do not need to go teetotal overnight, but trimming down your weekly intake could protect your pancreas.Quit smoking: Tobacco and alcohol together are really bad.Maintain a healthy weight: Extra body fat increases inflammation and strains your pancreas.Eat for your pancreas: Load your plate with vegetables, fruit, and whole grains, and keep processed foods to a minimum.Stay active: Exercise helps manage weight and lowers inflammation.

pancreatic cancer: new study warns how your alcohol habit could be a date with one of the world’s deadliest cancers

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Experts Warn Against The Unique Symptoms Of 'Stratus' Covid Strain That Has Infected A Large UK Population; Can It Evade Antibodies?

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The UKHSA has noted that a new strain of <span>COVID-19</span> virus, called Stratus, with two variants, XFG and XFG.3, has accounted for a high proportion cases in England, reports the <em>Independent</em>. Among these two variants, XFG.3 has accounted for 30% of cases in the country.

However, experts have suggested to not panic on the arrival of this new strain. Dr Alex Allen, consultant epidemiologist of UKHSA said, "It is normal for viruses to mutate and change over time," as reported by the <em>Independent</em>. However, the UKHSA has also confirmed that it continues to monitor all strains of <span>COVID</span> in the UK. For now, experts are not concerned over the spread.

As per the World Health Organization (WHO), XFG is a "variant under monitoring" and that any health risk posed by this variant remain low at the global level.

As of now, globally, XFG has the highest relative growth when compared to the other variants that are currently active and circulating, including "Nimbus" NB.1.8.1.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/world-organ-donation-day-2025-theme-history-and-importance-article-152455523" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">World Organ Donation Day 2025: Theme, History, And Importance</a>

The WHO also confirmed that current data does not indicate that this variant leads to more severe illness or deaths than the other currently active variants in circulation. 

<h2>Unique Symptoms Of <span rel="noindex">Stratus COVID Strain</span></h2>

While the strain is said to be not a cause of concern, the symptoms may be unique from what we traditionally know COVID symptoms to be. 

The WHO however, time and again has said that there is no increase in severity. It said, "While there are reported increases in cases and hospitalisations in some of the [South-east Asia Region] countries, which has the highest proportion of XFG, there are no reports to suggest that the associated disease severity is higher as compared to other circulating variants."

Dr Allen also seconded the opinion and said, "Based on the available information so far, there is no evidence to suggest that the XFG and XFG.3 variants cause more severe disease than previous variants, or that the vaccines in current use will be less effective against them.”

<strong><h3>The unique symptoms of Stratus COVID strain includes:</h3></strong>

<ul><li>Sore throat or hoarseness, as experts have also claimed that Stratus can give patients a "hoarse voice".</li><li>Headaches that can last several days</li><li>Nasal congestion and mild fever</li><li>Fatigue that lingers beyond acute phase</li></ul>

Other than these unique symptoms, the common COVID symptoms like change in smell or taste, shortness of breath and chest discomfort remain, however, it may be uncommon in vaccinated individuals. 

<h2>Are There Any Risks Around The New Stratus Strain?</h2>

XFG is growing rapidly compared to co-circulating variants globally. However, XFG exhibits only marginal additional immune evasion over [other varient] LP.8.1. While there are reported increases in cases and hospitalizations in some of the [South-east Asia Region] countries, which has the highest proportion of XFG, there are no reports to suggest that the associated disease severity is higher as compared to other circulating variants. The available evidence on XFG does not suggest additional public health risks relative to the other currently circulating Omicron descendant lineages," said WHO. 

<h2>Do We Need New Vaccines For The New Strain?</h2>

The WHO said that as per the current available data, the currently approved COVID-19 vaccines are expected to remain effective against symptomatic and severe diseases, including caused by the new strain. 

However, Dr Kaywaan Khan, Harley Street GP and founder of Hannah London Clinic told <em>Cosmopolitan </em><em>UK </em>that due to certain mutations in the spike protein in Stratus strain, it could evade antibodies "developed from prior infections or vaccinations".

While WHO noted that the risk of vaccine evasion is low, it also noted that more studies must be added to assess the risk of antibody escape. 

COVID-19

stratus covid 19

health news

Stratus COVID strain

COVID

covid 19

COVID 19 new strain

Stratus strain COVID 19

XFG strain Stratus

New COVID Strain

The UKHSA has noted that a new strain of COVID-19 virus, called Stratus, with two variants, XFG and XFG.3, has accounted for a high proportion cases in England, reports the Independent. Among these two variants, XFG.3 has accounted for 30% of cases in the country.However, experts have suggested to not panic on the arrival of this new strain. Dr Alex Allen, consultant epidemiologist of UKHSA said, "It is normal for viruses to mutate and change over time," as reported by the Independent. However, the UKHSA has also confirmed that it continues to monitor all strains of COVID in the UK. For now, experts are not concerned over the spread.What Is Stratus XFG and XFG.3?As per the World Health Organization (WHO), XFG is a "variant under monitoring" and that any health risk posed by this variant remain low at the global level.As of now, globally, XFG has the highest relative growth when compared to the other variants that are currently active and circulating, including "Nimbus" NB.1.8.1.Also Read: World Organ Donation Day 2025: Theme, History, And ImportanceThe WHO also confirmed that current data does not indicate that this variant leads to more severe illness or deaths than the other currently active variants in circulation. Unique Symptoms Of Stratus COVID StrainWhile the strain is said to be not a cause of concern, the symptoms may be unique from what we traditionally know COVID symptoms to be. The WHO however, time and again has said that there is no increase in severity. It said, "While there are reported increases in cases and hospitalisations in some of the [South-east Asia Region] countries, which has the highest proportion of XFG, there are no reports to suggest that the associated disease severity is higher as compared to other circulating variants."Dr Allen also seconded the opinion and said, "Based on the available information so far, there is no evidence to suggest that the XFG and XFG.3 variants cause more severe disease than previous variants, or that the vaccines in current use will be less effective against them.”The unique symptoms of Stratus COVID strain includes:Sore throat or hoarseness, as experts have also claimed that Stratus can give patients a "hoarse voice".Headaches that can last several daysNasal congestion and mild feverFatigue that lingers beyond acute phaseOther than these unique symptoms, the common COVID symptoms like change in smell or taste, shortness of breath and chest discomfort remain, however, it may be uncommon in vaccinated individuals. Are There Any Risks Around The New Stratus Strain?XFG is growing rapidly compared to co-circulating variants globally. However, XFG exhibits only marginal additional immune evasion over [other varient] LP.8.1. While there are reported increases in cases and hospitalizations in some of the [South-east Asia Region] countries, which has the highest proportion of XFG, there are no reports to suggest that the associated disease severity is higher as compared to other circulating variants. The available evidence on XFG does not suggest additional public health risks relative to the other currently circulating Omicron descendant lineages," said WHO. Do We Need New Vaccines For The New Strain?The WHO said that as per the current available data, the currently approved COVID-19 vaccines are expected to remain effective against symptomatic and severe diseases, including caused by the new strain. However, Dr Kaywaan Khan, Harley Street GP and founder of Hannah London Clinic told Cosmopolitan UK that due to certain mutations in the spike protein in Stratus strain, it could evade antibodies "developed from prior infections or vaccinations".While WHO noted that the risk of vaccine evasion is low, it also noted that more studies must be added to assess the risk of antibody escape. 

experts warn against the unique symptoms of 'stratus' covid strain that has infected a large uk population; can it evade antibodies?

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Every year, on August 13, <span>World Organ Donation Day</span> is observed, globally, to spread awareness about the importance of <span>organ donation</span> and to make people aware about the misconceptions that surround organ donation. 

<h2><span rel="noindex">World Organ Donation Day 2025</span> Theme And Significance</h2>

This year's theme for World <span>Organ Donation Day</span> is 'Answering the Call'. This theme highlights the important function played by the professionals in the organ donation community. What it means is to encourage more to strengthen their dedication to save as many lives as possible through organ donation and transplantation. 

The Pace Hospital notes that as of 2021, globally, 1,44,302 organ transplantations had occurred, of which, 26.44% were of deceased organ donation. India performed a total of 12,259 transplantation, contributing to 8% in global transplantations. In India, the most transplants that took place were for kidneys at 74.27%, liver at 23.33%, heart at 1.23%, lung at 1.08%, pancreas at 0.15%, and small intestine at 0.03%.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/experts-warn-against-the-unique-symptoms-of-stratus-covid-strain-that-has-infected-a-large-uk-population-can-it-evade-antibodies-article-152455852" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Experts Warn Against The Unique Symptoms Of 'Stratus' Covid Strain That Has Infected A Large UK Population; Can It Evade Antibodies?</a> 

The overall number of deceased donors transplantation in India was 4.5%. While the deceased donors transplantation in India was reported 759 for kidney, 279 for liver and 99 for heart, the Indian Ministry of Health's estimated that it needs 175,000 kidneys, 50,000 livers, hearts, and lungs and 2,500 pancreas to meet the demand. 

The Indian Ministry of Road and Transport and Highway's 2021 report notes that more than 1.5 lakh were reported as accident-related mortalities, however, only 552 deceased brain deaths organ transplantations took place in 2021. This is why it is more so important to raise awareness about organ donation to help those in requirement and reducing the number of patients on the waiting list. 

It was in 1954, when the first successful organ transplant was performed. It was a kidney transplant by Dr Joseph Murray and his team at Peter Bent Brigham Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts. 

The donor was Ronald Lee Herrick, who donated his organ to his twin brother Richard Herrick. Later in 1990, the doctor was honored with Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine for bringing advances in organ transplantation.

Th United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) highlights the timeline of the first donations and transplants performed of different organs. 

<ul><li><strong>1996</strong>: First simultaneous kidney and pancreas transplant performed.</li><li><strong>1967</strong>: First successful liver transplant performed.</li><li><strong>1968</strong>: The Southeast Organ Procurement Foundation implemented the first computer-based organ matching system, which was dubbed as UNOS. It successfully performed the first isolated pancreas transplant and heart transplant.</li><li><strong>1981</strong>: First successful heart-lung transplant performed. </li><li><strong>1983</strong>: First successful single-lung transplant performed. Cyclosporine, the first of a number of drugs that effectively treat organ rejection by suppressing the human immune system, introduced.</li><li><strong>1984</strong>: National Organ Transplant Act (NOTA) was passed. </li><li><strong>1986</strong>: First successful double-lung transplant performed. </li><li><strong>1987</strong>: First successful intestinal transplant performed. </li><li><strong>1988</strong>: First split-liver transplant performed.</li><li><strong>1989</strong>: First successful living donor liver transplant performed.</li><li><strong>1990</strong>: First successful living donor lung transplant performed.</li><li><strong>1992</strong>: UNOS helped found Donate Life America to build public support for organ donation.</li><li><strong>1998</strong>: First successful adult-to-adult living donor liver transplant performed.</li></ul>

<h2>How Organ Donation Can Change A Life?</h2>

In March 2024, a dedicated Delhi-based teacher, Meena Mehta was declared brain dead and her organs were donated to many, including her hands, shared her nephew Jawed Mehta. A 45-year-old Delhi-based painter had lost both his hands in a 2020 train accident, who received hand transplant. The hands were of Meena Mehta. After a 12-hour long surgery, the painter was able to paint again. Meena Mehta also donated her kidney, liver, and corneas, which has changed lives of three more people.

world organ donation day

world organ donation day 2025

organ donation day

organ donation

organ donation day 2025

theme organ donation day

organ donation day 2025 theme

Every year, on August 13, World Organ Donation Day is observed, globally, to spread awareness about the importance of organ donation and to make people aware about the misconceptions that surround organ donation. World Organ Donation Day 2025 Theme And SignificanceThis year's theme for World Organ Donation Day is 'Answering the Call'. This theme highlights the important function played by the professionals in the organ donation community. What it means is to encourage more to strengthen their dedication to save as many lives as possible through organ donation and transplantation. The Pace Hospital notes that as of 2021, globally, 1,44,302 organ transplantations had occurred, of which, 26.44% were of deceased organ donation. India performed a total of 12,259 transplantation, contributing to 8% in global transplantations. In India, the most transplants that took place were for kidneys at 74.27%, liver at 23.33%, heart at 1.23%, lung at 1.08%, pancreas at 0.15%, and small intestine at 0.03%.Also Read: Experts Warn Against The Unique Symptoms Of 'Stratus' Covid Strain That Has Infected A Large UK Population; Can It Evade Antibodies? The overall number of deceased donors transplantation in India was 4.5%. While the deceased donors transplantation in India was reported 759 for kidney, 279 for liver and 99 for heart, the Indian Ministry of Health's estimated that it needs 175,000 kidneys, 50,000 livers, hearts, and lungs and 2,500 pancreas to meet the demand. The Indian Ministry of Road and Transport and Highway's 2021 report notes that more than 1.5 lakh were reported as accident-related mortalities, however, only 552 deceased brain deaths organ transplantations took place in 2021. This is why it is more so important to raise awareness about organ donation to help those in requirement and reducing the number of patients on the waiting list. History Of Organ DonationIt was in 1954, when the first successful organ transplant was performed. It was a kidney transplant by Dr Joseph Murray and his team at Peter Bent Brigham Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts. The donor was Ronald Lee Herrick, who donated his organ to his twin brother Richard Herrick. Later in 1990, the doctor was honored with Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine for bringing advances in organ transplantation.Th United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) highlights the timeline of the first donations and transplants performed of different organs. 1996: First simultaneous kidney and pancreas transplant performed.1967: First successful liver transplant performed.1968: The Southeast Organ Procurement Foundation implemented the first computer-based organ matching system, which was dubbed as UNOS. It successfully performed the first isolated pancreas transplant and heart transplant.1981: First successful heart-lung transplant performed. 1983: First successful single-lung transplant performed. Cyclosporine, the first of a number of drugs that effectively treat organ rejection by suppressing the human immune system, introduced.1984: National Organ Transplant Act (NOTA) was passed. 1986: First successful double-lung transplant performed. 1987: First successful intestinal transplant performed. 1988: First split-liver transplant performed.1989: First successful living donor liver transplant performed.1990: First successful living donor lung transplant performed.1992: UNOS helped found Donate Life America to build public support for organ donation.1998: First successful adult-to-adult living donor liver transplant performed.How Organ Donation Can Change A Life?In March 2024, a dedicated Delhi-based teacher, Meena Mehta was declared brain dead and her organs were donated to many, including her hands, shared her nephew Jawed Mehta. A 45-year-old Delhi-based painter had lost both his hands in a 2020 train accident, who received hand transplant. The hands were of Meena Mehta. After a 12-hour long surgery, the painter was able to paint again. Meena Mehta also donated her kidney, liver, and corneas, which has changed lives of three more people.

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