In 2025, 985 people donated organs in Germany after their death, 32 more than in 2024 and the highest figure since 2012. This corresponds to 11.8 donors per million inhabitants. Nevertheless, the number is not enough to help all waiting list patients. A total of 3020 organs were distributed and transplanted, including 1495 kidneys, 823 livers and 315 hearts.

The Medical Director of the German Organ Transplantation Foundation (DSO), Dr. med. Axel Rahmel, classifies the development: “The fact that we will have more organ donors in 2025 than at any time in over a decade is an important and encouraging signal. At the same time, this level is not yet sufficient to meet demand. The shortage of donor organs still exists.”

3256 organs were used in transplant centres, helping 3150 patients. At the end of 2025, 8199 people were waiting for an organ. Regional differences are large; in eastern Germany, the figures were 38 percent above the average at 16.3 donors per million inhabitants. With nationwide values like there, the situation would be better.

Of 3524 hospital reports, two-thirds did not lead to a donation, often due to a lack of consent. Many do not have a documented decision; Relatives then decide under pressure. The discussion about the opt-out regulation is seen as positive, as it promotes debate and relieves relatives, strengthening the donation culture in the long term.

Age is not an obstacle; the median was 59 years, the oldest donor was 98. Older donors are more likely to have comorbidities, which reduces the usable organs per donor from 3.5 in 2014 to 3.1. Machine perfusion for kidneys, mandatory from January 19, 2026 with extended criteria, improves preservation and chances of success. It applies to donors over 60 or 50 to 59 with risk factors such as high blood pressure.

The increase and new procedures are positive, but demand remains high.

Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

Gender Notice. The personal designations used in this text always refer equally to female, male and diverse persons. Double/triple naming and gendered designations are used for better readability. ected.