NATIONAL MOTTEP - Educating to Prevent the Need for Transplantation
Minority communities represent 25% of the population, yet comprise more than 60% of those on transplant waiting lists because of higher rates of diabetes, hypertension and kidney disease. For a transplant, compatible blood type is critical. Some blood types are more common in minority communities. These are all reasons we need more minority donors.
HERE’S HOW YOU CAN PREVENT TRANSPLANTS - YOU HAVE THE POWER!
■ Checkup. Make sure you have an annual health checkup.
■ Monitor. Check your blood pressure— often. See your doctor if it isn’t below 140/90.
■ Exercise. Be physically active for at least 30 minutes a day to cut the risk of obesity, hypertension & diabetes. These diseases increase the risk of needing an organ transplant. Go for a walk, now!
■ Maintain. Work to maintain a healthy weight and ask your doctor if you need help losing weight.
■ Eat right. More green vegetables & less red meat make for an organ healthy diet.
■ Add. Eat more whole grains, breads and cereals, which are an excellent source of fiber.
■ Drink more. More water that is. Cut out the sugary drinks and alcohol.
■ Avoid. Stay away from illegal drugs, which can severely damage the liver and kidney.
■ Reduce. Cut down or eliminate foods high in salt, cholesterol and saturated fats.
■ Be a quitter. Quit smoking ASAP. Check out for tips and text message support.
Steps to Burn Off Calories
Credit: Nina Gonzales/Thrillist






