You Don't Need That Extra Kidney After All

Donating anything makes people feel good and although donating a kidney falls into the same category, there's always been anxiety about whether it's good for your health. The selfless may sigh in relief - kidney donors have the same risk for disease as non-donors. 

A new study by the University of Minnesota found that kidney donors and non-donors live just as long and have the same rates of contracting disease (including kidney disease). The study reinforces the safety of donating a kidney, which could lead to more donations and transplants. With 78,000 people on the transplant wait list, anything that encourages donations is welcome. Research and doctors hope the study will alleviate some concerns about donating a kidney.  

Originally reported by the Minneapolis Star Tribune.