Introduction

The shortage of skin is an serious issue in Singapore. Many burnt victims die beacaue of the infection which can actually be prevented if donated skin is used as a temporary dressing which can reduce the growth of bacteria abd loss of the patient vital fluids. Many people reject the idea of donating skin as they believe that donating a dead person's skin will disfigure him. However, this is not true, only the outermost layer between 0.25mm and 0.4mm thick is taken from flat surfaces from the thigh and the back. This is thinner than a piece of tissue paper. The area where skin is being taken from are concealed by clothing thus it will not mar the owner's image. Donated skin is very useful.

Not many people in Singapore know about skin donation and how important it really it is. There was an accident on 27 Feb where five workers suffered chemical burns and four of them died. These deaths can actually be prevented if there was enough skin in the bank. To be prepared for a national crisis, SGH skin bank needs 60,000 sq cm of skin. Singapore has had to import skin from Australia, the United States and the Netherlands, at $200 for a piece about the size of an adult's palm since there's not enough skin donation in the country. 

By just donating a little of your skin, you can save lives!