Bridging the Gap: Urgent Call for Skin Donations in India

The National Burns Centre (NBC) has raised concerns over a major shortfall in skin donations, especially evident in Mumbai, where only 30 out of the necessary 150 monthly grafts are collected. Dr. Sunil Keswani, NBC's director, cites lack of awareness as a significant factor in this deficit.

The scarcity is nationwide, with existing skin banks failing to meet demands due to geographic limitations, as they're predominantly located in the south and west, leaving areas like the northeast without facilities. Burn patients, primarily in the 15-35 age group, are consequently suffering from severe economic and emotional burdens, impeding their recovery.

Skin donations, which must occur within hours after death, are further hampered by low public knowledge—only 1 in 10 people understand the process. NBC is committed to changing this by conducting awareness programs and offering guidance through a dedicated helpline, urging more to register as donors.