Living organ donation: ethical issues and mental health impacts

Abstract

Organ transplantation improves quality of life and life expectancy, and can be a vital treatment for
numerous diseases. However, Brazil faces a significant gap between organ demand and availability,
with more than 45,000 people on the waiting list in 2024. Living organ donation has brought benefits
such as reduced waiting time, but also raises important ethical concerns. Living donors must be
evaluated to ensure their understanding of the risks and the absence of coercion. Psychosocial screening,
conducted by trained professionals, can aid identify risks and assess donors’ mental health. Psychiatrists
and forensic psychiatrists play a key role in investigating motivations, emotional impact, and possible
disorders, ensuring the decision is autonomous and informed. This study reviews practices, challenges,
and advances, and highlights the importance of psychosocial evaluations in the living donation process.