Costa Rica has set a new record for organ donation between January and June, with a total of 36 deceased donors, according to the Social Security System (CCSS).

This figure surpasses the previous record of 35 deceased donors recorded during the same period in 2018.

“These donors represent the possibility of performing transplants for dozens of patients currently waiting for an organ or tissue,” said Dr. Alexander Sánchez Cabo, Medical Manager at the CCSS.

Thanks to these donations, medical teams were able to carry out 35 kidney transplants, 26 liver transplants, one heart transplant, and nine lung transplants during the first half of the year. In addition, there were 36 cornea donations and 46 donations of other tissues, including skin, bone, heart valves, and blood vessels.

According to CCSS officials, approximately 1,500 people in Costa Rica are currently on the waiting list for an organ or tissue transplant. Of these, more than 1,000 require a cornea, about 450 need a kidney, and 40 are waiting for a liver.

Authorities continue to emphasize that organ donation is a life-saving, altruistic act. Those interested in becoming donors are encouraged to visit their local public health clinic (Ebais) to officially register their decision.

The CCSS is the government-run entity in charge of Costa Rica’s public health system.