Wang Dingchen, 16

School: Chung Cheng High School (Yishun)

Topic: Can social media make a positive impact on organ donation?

Award: Second Place, Senior Category, 2023

Changes to advent of social media had brought upon the shores of organ donation

I agree that social media (SoMe) has brought positive impacts on the noble cause of organ donation. SoMe is currently an integral part of the daily routine and personal lives of almost everyone, and its use has skyrocketed over the past few decades, with over 4 billion people using SoMe worldwide and a total of 10 billion hours are spent on various social platforms per day. The average user also possesses 8.6 accounts on various networking platforms like Youtube, Facebook, and Twitter^[1][2]. These three are the most widely used SoMe platforms, however, lnstagram, Linkedln, and Pinterest engage several million users too. The use of these platforms depends on multiple factors, such as age, gender, and educational level, and are especially popular among the younger generation. Facebook has roughly 2.6 billion active users per month worldwide, while Twitter engages over 350 million active users per month^[2]. Social networks have also evolved from being a smooth means of keeping in touch with relatives and friends to having a substantial impact on society in more pressing health-related issues, including organ donation and transplantation. This essay explores the multifaceted impacts of SoMe on organ transplantation, encompassing improved patient outcomes, increased organ donation rates, enhanced communication and support networks, ethical considerations, and future prospects. By examining these areas, we can better understand how SoMe has transformed the field of organ transplantation, ultimately saving lives and improving the quality of life for countless individuals and why it is extremely beneficial towards organ donation.

SoMe platforms have become vital sources of information for patients awaiting organ transplants. They offer a plethora of educational resources, enabling patients to acquire knowledge about their conditions, treatment options, and transplant processes. Facebook groups, online forums, and dedicated websites facilitate the exchange of experiences, providing patients with valuable insights into the transplant journey. This improved access to information empowers patients, allowing them to actively participate in their own healthcare decisions and advocate for themselves.

Moreover, SoMe fosters peer support networks, connecting individuals who have undergone organ transplantation or are awaiting a transplant. These networks serve as virtual support groups, offering emotional reassurance, advice, and practical tips for managing the challenges associated with organ transplantation. The emotional support garnered through SoMe can significantly alleviate stress and anxiety, enhancing the overall well-being of patients. Studies have shown that patients with robust support systems exhibit better post-transplant outcomes, including reduced complications and improved adherence to medication regimens^[3].

One of the most significant impacts of SoMe on organ transplantation is its ability to raise awareness and increase organ donation rates. SoMe platforms provide a dynamic space to promote organ donation campaigns^[4], share personal stories, and dispel myths surrounding donation. The viral nature of SoMe allows messages to spread rapidly, reaching a wide audience and prompting individuals to reevaluate their perceptions and misconceptions about organ donation.

Notably, the "Share Your Spare" phenomenon gained traction on platforms like Facebook and Twitter. Individuals in need of an organ transplant often create personal profiles, detailing their stories, struggles, and the urgent need for a transplant. These profiles are then widely shared, attracting attention and potential donors who are inspired to step forward and offer their organs. Such campaigns have successfully bridged the gap between patients and potential donors, significantly expanding the pool of available organs for transplantation.

In addition, SoMe has facilitated the establishment of online registries and donor matching platforms and made efforts towards increasing people willing to donate their organs^[5]. These platforms leverage the power of social networks to connect potential donors with individuals in need of organ transplants. By matching donors and recipients based on compatibility and location, SoMe has streamlined the organ allocation process, reducing waiting times and improving the likelihood of finding suitable matches.

SoMe platforms have also proven to be effective tools in overcoming geographical barriers in the field of organ transplantation. These platforms provide a virtual space where patients, medical professionals, and researchers from different regions can connect and share knowledge. By transcending geographical boundaries, SoMe fosters global collaboration and advancements in organ transplantation. Doctors and transplant coordinators can communicate with their counterparts in other countries, exchanging best practices, discussing challenging cases, and collectively contributing to the improvement of transplantation techniques. This global network of expertise not only enhances medical education but also ensures that patients receive the best possible care regardless of their location. Additionally, SoMe allows researchers to collaborate on international studies as recorded by the International Registry on Organ Donation and Transplantation (IRODaT)¹, pooling resources and data from various regions to gain a more comprehensive understanding of organ transplantation and ultimately improve patient outcomes worldwide.

SoMe platforms also revolutionised the way medical professionals communicate and collaborate in the field of organ transplantation. Online communities enable doctors, nurses, researchers, and transplant coordinators from different parts of the world to connect, exchange knowledge, and share best practices. This virtual collaboration facilitates advancements in transplantation techniques, enhances medical education, and ultimately benefits patients by fostering a global network of expertise.

Furthermore, SoMe has given healthcare professionals a direct channel to disseminate critical information about organ transplantation to the public. Platforms like Twitter enable renowned transplant surgeons and organisations to share updates on breakthroughs, research findings, and policy changes, allowing both medical professionals and the general public to be well-informed about the latest developments in the field.

For a similar reason, SoMe plays a crucial role in public education and debunking myths surrounding organ transplantation. SoMe platforms offer a unique opportunity to disseminate accurate information about the transplantation process, risks, benefits, and the importance of organ donation. Through engaging content, visuals, and personal stories shared by patients and healthcare professionals, SoMe captivates and educates a wide audience. It provides a platform for transplant experts and organisations to address common misconceptions and debunk myths that might hinder organ donation. By sharing success stories, highlighting the transformative impact of organ transplantation, and dispelling unfounded fears, SoMe helps foster a more informed and supportive public attitude towards organ donation. Moreover, SoMe enables the general public to engage in dialogue, ask questions, and interact with experts, fostering a better understanding of the complexities and ethical considerations involved in organ transplantation. Through these efforts, SoMe contributes to increasing awareness, reducing stigma, and ultimately saving more lives through organ donation.

SoMe platforms are also powerful tools for fundraising and financial support in the context of organ transplantation. Patients and their families often face substantial financial burdens associated with the transplant process, including pre-operative evaluations, surgery, post-operative care, and lifelong immunosuppressive medications. SoMe campaigns and crowdfunding initiatives provide a means for individuals to reach out to their networks and beyond, sharing their stories, spreading awareness, and requesting financial assistance. The viral nature of SoMe enables these campaigns to gain widespread attention, allowing compassionate individuals to contribute and support those in need. Moreover, online fundraising efforts enable communities to rally together, organising events, and engaging in collective efforts to alleviate the financial strain on transplant patients and their families via the use of apps like GoFundMe. The power of SoMe in fundraising has brought hope and financial relief to many individuals, making organ transplantation more accessible to those who would otherwise struggle to afford the necessary medical expenses.

While the impact of SoMe on organ transplantation is predominantly positive, ethical considerations must be addressed. The transparency and openness of SoMe platforms can expose patients and potential donors to privacy breaches, exploitation, and misinformation. Stricter guidelines and policies should be implemented to safeguard the privacy and well-being of individuals involved in organ transplantation discussions on SoMe. Healthcare providers must also play an active role in monitoring and providing accurate information to counteract the spread of false or misleading content.

Additionally, the use of SoMe in organ transplantation raises possible concerns regarding consent and the protection of vulnerable individuals. It is crucial to ensure that patients' personal information and stories are shared with their informed consent and that their privacy is respected. SoMe platforms should enforce policies that prohibit the solicitation or sale of organs, protecting both donors and recipients from potential exploitation.

Looking ahead, SoMe holds immense potential for further transforming the field of organ transplantation. Advances in artificial intelligence and data analytics can leverage SoMe data to improve organ allocation algorithms, enhance predictive modelling, and identify potential donors more efficiently. SoMe platforms can also collaborate with healthcare organisations to develop targeted campaigns to reach underserved populations, address cultural barriers, and increase organ donation rates across diverse communities.

In conclusion, SoMe has emerged as a game-changer in the realm of organ transplantation. It has positively impacted patient outcomes, increased organ donation rates, facilitated communication and collaboration among healthcare professionals, and raised awareness about organ transplantation. However, ethical considerations must be addressed to ensure responsible use and protect the privacy and well-being of individuals. By harnessing the power of SoMe and leveraging emerging technologies, the field of organ transplantation can continue to advance, saving lives and improving the quality of life for countless individuals in need.

¹ IRODaT, or more formally referred to as the lnternational Registry on Organ Donation and Transplantation, provides information used by the international community for epidemiological, scientific, social and benchmarking studies.

References

1. https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2021/04/07/social-media-use-in-2021/

2. https://datareportal.com/social-media-users

3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2729718/

4. https://www.nlg.nhs.uk/news/nhsbt-launches-idonation-twitter-campaign-for-world­ sight-day-to-highlight-ongoing-need-for-cornea-donors/

5. https://www.bmj.com/content/353/bmj.i3369

Disclaimer: Please note that the views and opinions expressed in the essays for the Live On Festival 2023 are those of the participants and are not endorsed by the National Organ Transplant Unit (Ministry of Health). To learn more about organ donation and organ transplantation in Singapore, please visit www.liveon.gov.sg