Professor Dr. Mehmet Haberal is a physician, academician, and politician recognized in Türkiye for his scientific research, surgical applications, and contributions to health policy in the field of organ transplantation. He served as a member of parliament for Zonguldak in the 24th term of the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye (TBMM). He pioneered transplant research at Hacettepe University and contributed significantly to the development of the legal and practical frameworks for organ transplantation. He also founded Başkent University and held positions in international transplantation organizations.

Education and Academic Career

Mehmet Haberal was born in 1944 in Rize-Pazar. After graduating from Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, he obtained the title of general surgeon. At Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, he established the Burn and Transplantation Unit and conducted extensive work in the field of organ transplantation.

Surgical Work and Contributions

In 1975, Haberal performed the first kidney transplant from a living related donor in Türkiye, initiating organ transplantation practices in the country. Subsequently, under the auspices of the European Transplantation Union, he performed the first cadaveric kidney transplant in Türkiye. In 1988, he carried out the first cadaveric liver transplant in North Africa, the Middle East, and Türkiye. In 1990 and thereafter, he successfully performed living donor segmental liver transplants in children and simultaneous liver and kidney transplants from a single donor.

Legal and Institutional Contributions to the Organ Transplantation Process

Mehmet Haberal led the drafting of Law No. 2238 on “Removal, Storage, Transplantation and Use of Organs and Tissues” and ensured its enactment in 1979. This legislation established the legal framework for organ donation and transplantation procedures.

Academic Productivity and International Engagement

Haberal has authored a large number of scientific publications and has organized or participated in numerous national and international transplantation congresses. He has held active roles in organizations such as the Middle East Society for Organ Transplantation (MESOT) and has been active in international bodies including the World Transplantation Society.

Politics and Parliamentary Activities

Professor Dr. Mehmet Haberal served as a member of parliament for Zonguldak in the TBMM. During his tenure, he worked on issues related to health policy.