Pan-European study identifies significant inequities in living donor kidney transplantation

A new pan-European study, published in the journal Transplant International on October 6, 2026, highlights major disparities in access to living donor kidney transplantation. Led by Assistant Professor Andreas Kousios of the European University Cyprus (EUC) School of Medicine, the research involved experts from across the continent to evaluate systemic inequities.

The investigation reveals that access to life-saving kidney transplants is influenced by geographic location, socioeconomic status, and ethnicity. Significant variations were also identified in clinical procedures, including donor assessment protocols, informed consent practices, long-term patient follow-up, and access to cross-border kidney exchange programs. According to the findings, over 500,000 individuals across Europe currently rely on dialysis or transplantation to survive.

The study emphasizes an urgent need for the harmonization of donor assessment standards and the expansion of national and international kidney exchange programs to ensure equitable treatment. By identifying these priorities, the authors aim to provide a framework for future policy changes to improve fair access to transplantation services throughout Europe.