China's latest version of the criteria for judging brain death of adults and related technique specifications has been approved by experts recently. Though brain death has not become a regular standard for confirming death, obviously China has made a great step forward in the legalization of brain death.

"The biggest obstacle for the legalization of brain death in China is the misunderstanding of the general public and the chaotic managing of many hospitals," said Chen Zhonghua, a medical expert.

Actually, many Chinese still won't accept it when doctors announce the brain death of their family members, who still have breath and heart beat.

"It will take very long time to legalize brain death, at least several years," said Sun Lidong, a law professor from Peking University. Besides, there must also be a strict regulation governing brain death judgment by doctors and hospitals.

Currently, more than 30 countries and regions worldwide have legalized brain death, and another 80-plus ones have accepted related standards.

(Chinanews October 9, 2007)