They become either research subjects or raw materials for medical products that are sold commercially for profit. It is more likely that body parts will be made into products. The story begins with private acts of charity. California residents can indicate their intent to donate their organs and tissue on their driver's licenses. In addition, the industry aggressively recruits donors through Internet spam, billboards and television commercials.
Government grants help pay advertising costs.
The efforts are working. The number of donors increased 172 percent nationwide over the past five years, the American Association of Tissue Banks says. Nonprofit tissue banks from Santa Ana to New Jersey screen possible donors and remove body parts. Up to 20 bones and tendons are harvested along with 4 square feet of skin and the whole heart. In some cases, eyes, veins, jawbones, ribs and the spine are taken.