Organ, tissue and cell transplantation is one of the great medical success stories of modern times. In many cases, it is the only life-saving treatment for patients with end-stage organ failure, devastating burn injuries or blood cancers, and in many others it can significantly improve the quality of life of patients, for example, by restoring their sight. On average, 41 000 organ transplantations are performed in Europe¹ every year, and 48 000 new patients are added at some time to a waiting list.

Throughout Europe, the need for donors remains unfulfilled. That is why, this year too, on the occasion of the European Day for Organ Donation and Transplantation (EODD), the European Directorate for the Quality of Medicines & HealthCare (EDQM) calls on everyone to consider organ and tissue donation and make their wishes known to their loved ones.

Donation can make a real difference and alleviate the suffering of patients on waiting lists: one single donor can save up to eight lives through organ donation and save or improve up to 100 lives through tissue donation. There is still a long way to go, however, to meet the growing demand for transplantations. EODD is an opportunity to discuss organ, tissue and cell donation and transplantation and reflect upon their importance, as well as to thank donors, their families and the health professionals involved.

This year, celebrations for the 20th edition of EODD, on 10 October, will take place online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Check out the 2020 EODD web page and the EDQM Facebook page @EDQMCouncilofEurope, and download the EODD social media banners to show your support for the cause and thank donors, families and health professionals!

Since 1996, EODD has contributed to the steady increase in the number of donors in Europe by spreading the message among the general public on the importance of organ, tissue and cell donation and transplantation/human application. EODD is organised in line with the mission of the European Committee on Organ Transplantation (CD-P-TO), the steering committee in charge of organ transplantation activities at the EDQM, which contributes to raising awareness on organ, tissue and cell donation for transplantation.

The work of the CD-P-TO also focuses on elaborating ethical, quality and safety standards in the field of transplantation, promoting the principle of non-commercialisation of organ, tissue and cell donation, and strengthening measures to avoid trafficking.

• Find out more about the European Day for Organ Donation and Transplantation (EODD)
• Learn more about the work of the EDQM and the CD-P-TO in the field of organ donation and transplantation