ZANJAN — In observance of National Organ Donation Day and Health Week, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences (ZUMS) released its latest regional figures on organ transplantation, reaffirming the province’s status as a pioneer in humanitarian healthcare and clinical excellence.

Since the establishment of the specialized transplantation unit at the ZUMS Vice-Chancellery for Treatment in 2008, Zanjan Province has facilitated over 250 organ donations from brain-dead donors, resulting in more than 750 successful life-saving transplants. This milestone reflects a sustained institutional commitment to addressing end-stage organ failure through advanced clinical protocols and community engagement.

Clinical Imperatives and Medical Ethics

Speaking on the medical necessity of transplantation, Roya Ghahremani, Head of the Department for the Treatment of Diseases at ZUMS, emphasized that for conditions such as end-stage liver or heart failure, transplantation remains the only viable clinical solution as medical science has yet to develop effective artificial substitutes.

“Brain death represents the irreversible cessation of life,” Ghahremani noted during a recent briefing. “Within the ‘golden window’ following a diagnosis of brain death, the altruistic decision of a family to provide consent is the decisive factor in restoring life to multiple patients awaiting transplantation.”

A National Benchmark in Healthcare Altruism

The University’s specialized organ procurement activities began in 2008. Since then, the province’s systematic approach to donor identification and family coordination has earned Zanjan the first-place national ranking twice. University officials attribute this success to a unique synergy between high-level clinical coordination and the region’s strong cultural and ethical foundations.

Advancing the Culture of Donation

Current national statistics indicate that approximately 9% of the population holds a registered organ donor card. However, ZUMS officials highlighted that within Iran’s legal and ethical framework, familial consent remains the primary requirement for organ procurement.

“The organ donor card serves as a ‘spiritual testament’ of an individual’s final wishes,” Ghahremani explained. “At ZUMS, we encourage cardholders to communicate their decision clearly with their families. This proactive approach ensures that in critical moments, families can honor their loved ones’ intentions with certainty and peace of mind.”

Institutional Mission

The University continues to support the dedicated efforts of its transplant coordinators and healthcare professionals. Beyond the clinical procedures, ZUMS remains committed to fostering a culture of altruism, viewing organ donation not only as a medical necessity but as a profound humanitarian legacy that bridges the gap between tragedy and the gift of new life.