A study by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases found that the health of kidney donors did not decline after a three-year period when compared to healthy non-donors. Researchers studied cholesterol levels, blood pressure and protein levels.  

Two sets of groups, kidney donors and healthy volunteers, participated in follow-up checkups for three years. Scientists found the levels of protein, cholesterol and blood pressure did not differ between the two groups. It was also found that kidney functions in the donor group improved over time, while the healthy group experienced age-related kidney function issues. While the area needs more research, scientists say it is a starting point in studying the effects of living kidney donation on an individual’s health.