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MINORITY OUTREACH
The need for organ and tissue donation grows more crucial each day. Minority
communities are especially affected. Over 110,000 Americans are on the national
waiting list for a life-saving organ transplant. Statistics indicate that approximately
54% of those waiting are minorities. Due to a high incidence of kidney and heart
disease, caused by high blood pressure, diabetes, genetics and lifestyle choices,
African Americans and Hispanic/Latinos are disproportionately represented on the
transplant waiting list. Unfortunately, the multicultural population waits nearly
twice as long for their life-saving organ transplant due to the lack of minority donors.
Kentucky Organ Donor Affiliates is committed to raising awareness of this public health
crisis through participating in outreach efforts throughout the service area. KODA is
partnering with BE THE MATCH Bone Marrow Program to offer Donor Drives in minority
churches and college campuses throughout Kentucky. Many individuals have joined
the Donor Registry through these efforts.
For more information, or to schedule a Donor Drive please contact Amber McGuire,
Minority Education Coordinator at 800.525.3456 or email
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