Organ transplantation trends and challenges reported across Latin America

Various Latin American regions report significant developments in organ donation and transplantation throughout 2026. In Argentina, Incucai reported that 2,551 people have received transplants so far this year, including 1,096 corneal and 978 renal procedures.

In Mexico, Jalisco leads the nation in living donor kidney transplants with 308 procedures recorded, contributing to a total of 795 organ and tissue transplants in the state. In Querétaro, the IMSS has completed 47 procurements, primarily involving corneas.

Chilean health institutions are also seeing activity. The Hospital Regional de Talca has reached a record 24 renal transplants this year. However, medical professionals in Ovalle and academic experts emphasize that family refusal rates remain a challenge due to misinformation and the need for better communication regarding the donor's wishes.

In Peru, patients at the Hospital Nacional Edgardo Rebagliati have reported a critical shortage of everolimus, an essential immunosuppressant medication required to prevent organ rejection. The hospital confirmed a national shortage and is working to source the drug from abroad.