This book provides a comprehensive yet accessible look at organ donation and transplantation, including coverage of scientific, medical, social, legal, and ethical issues. Readers will also discover how new technologies and medical advances are shaping the future of organ donation.

Donated organs and tissues have improved or saved the lives of hundreds of thousands of individuals. But these life-changing procedures raise many logistical and ethical questions. How can organs be effectively allocated to those in need? Should individuals be allowed to purchase organs from living donors? What role does religion and culture play in someone's decision to donate or accept an organ? Will new technologies like bioprinting change the future of organ donation?

Part of Greenwood’s Health and Medical Issues Today series, Organ Donation is divided into three sections. Part I explores different aspects of the donation and transplantation process, including which tissues and organs can be donated, living versus deceased donation, religious and cultural perceptions, and cutting-edge alternatives to traditional organ transplants. Part II delves deep into a variety of issues and controversies related to the subject, offering thorough and balanced coverage of such hot-button topics as opt-in versus opt-out systems, organ trafficking, and transplant tourism. Part III provides a variety of useful materials, including case studies, a glossary, and a directory of resources.