Health Issues in Minority Communities

The need for organ transplants and the shortage of donors affects people of all ethnic backgrounds.

Did you know that African-Americans are four times more likely to suffer from high blood pressure, which can lead to end-stage kidney failure and require a transplant? African-Americans make up 32% of the country’s dialysis patients and one third of those waiting for kidney transplants.

Did you know that 35% of Asian-Americans suffer from end-stage renal (kidney) disease due to diabetes? One cause of end-stage renal disease is glomerulonephritis. Asian-Americans make up over 1% of patients waiting for kidney transplants. 

Clearly, certain minority groups are more susceptible to the diseases that lead to the need for organ transplants. Education is essential for these groups to better understand disease prevention, and the benefits of organ donation and transplantation. Information is readily available at many churches, community groups, and schools. You can also call NJ Sharing Network at 1-800-SHARE-NJ to find out what you can do to help yourself, your family and those in need.

New Spanish language brochure promoting organ and tissue donation among Hispanics unveiled at Rahway MVC office

Helping to commemorate National Hispanic Heritage Month, New Jersey Assemblyman and Perth Amboy Mayor Joseph Vas and New Jersey Organ and Tissue Sharing Network (NJ Sharing Network) President and Chief Executive Officer Joseph Roth today unveiled a new Spanish language brochure which promotes organ and tissue donation among members of New Jersey 's Spanish speaking community.

Legislation co-sponsored by Assemblyman Vas, has given NJ Sharing Network 24/7 access to the MVC organ and tissue donor database. This partnership is part of a campaign to increase the number of registered donors in New Jersey to 2.1 million by April 2008. Currently there are more than 1.4 million New Jerseyans who have placed the organ donor designation on their driver's license.

"A vibrant community like ours, with an amazing love for life, should be one of the primary supporters of donation," said Assemblyman Vas. "We need to get informed about organ and tissue donation, let go of our fears, and designate a donation decision. Each person that makes a decision could save or enhance the lives of over 50 people. That makes a huge difference. September 15 - October 15 is National Hispanic Heritage Month and this is the right time to get this message out. "

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