How to Enhance Kidney Donation around the World: A Summary of Expert Opinions from the 5th International Congress of Chinese Nephrologists.
Philip K T Li, Lik Fung Sam Lau, Kai-Ming Chow, Jason C J Choo, Lai Seong Hooi, Ming Che Lee, Wai Hon Lim, York Pei, Frederick Wai-Keung Tam, Melissa Y Yeung, Simon Yiu Hang Tang, Na Tian, Jianghua Chen
Abstract
Open AccessBackground: Kidney transplantation is the best modality of kidney replacement therapy for kidney failure, and yet global shortages of donor kidneys persist. Summary: The 5th International Congress of Chinese Nephrologists (ICCN), held in Hong Kong from December 13-15, 2024, hosted a "Kidney Donation Roundtable Workshop" to address this critical issue. The incidence of kidney transplantation varies across countries and regions, and detailed evaluation is essential to guide stakeholders in developing strategies to enhance kidney donation and improve patient outcomes worldwide. This paper summarizes expert opinions from the congress, focusing on strategies to enhance kidney donation globally. Key Messages: Improving public education, addressing ethical and cultural barriers, optimizing organ allocation systems, and leveraging policy incentives to promote both living and deceased donation are cornerstones in combating donor kidney shortages.