March 23, 2007

The True Price of a Human Organ

By SUSAN BROWN and DAVID GLENN

Last year more than 6,000 Living Americans gave parts of their bodies to people in need. Most donated a kidney, which released the recipient from hours of dialysis, renewed his or her health, and probably extended the person's life.

And it was truly a gift. Federal law prohibits donors from receiving money for an organ, a policy that also holds in many other parts of the world.

Yet everyone involved in the transaction benefits except the donor. Surgeons and other medical-staff

Print Subscription

Digital Subscription

Already have an account? Log In Now.