The National Burns Centre has stepped up efforts to address the gap by actively spreading awareness and encouraging people to come forward for skin donation. The organization has expressed deep concern over the alarming disparity between demand and supply across the country.
According to available data, Mumbai is able to meet only about 25% of its annual skin donation requirement. The situation is further aggravated by the fact that nearly 70% of burn victims belong to the young age group of 15 to 35 years, underscoring the devastating impact on the most productive segment of the population.
Dr. Sunil Keswani, Director and Plastic Surgeon at the National Burns Centre, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Due to lack of awareness, very few patients receive timely skin transplants. This is a serious issue that can only be resolved through collective efforts.” He further added, “Every year, we conduct hundreds of awareness campaigns to educate people about the importance of skin donation and to motivate them to take this life-saving step.”
The importance of the cause is further highlighted by burn survivor Viraj Thakur, who shared his personal experience, saying, “Skin donation and timely medical treatment saved my life. I urge everyone to come forward and support this noble cause.”
Medical experts also stress that the decision for skin donation can be made within six hours after death, making timely consent crucial. They further note that a single donation has the potential to help save multiple lives, offering hope and recovery to patients suffering from severe burn injuries.
The growing gap between demand and availability of skin donations continues to pose a serious healthcare concern in Mumbai, with experts urging collective awareness and participation to bridge the critical shortage and save more lives.
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