Cirrhosis caused by chronic hepatitis C or long-term alcohol abuse are the most common reasons for needing a liver transplant.

FORBES: New Device Keeps Liver Alive Outside Body

Others are turned off by Chesnutt's unpredictable live performances, famously ruined in the past by his chronic bouts with depression, anxiety and alcohol abuse.

NPR: Vic Chesnutt, Live in Studio 4A

Hendricks had severe congestive heart failure, chronic asthma, uncontrolled diabetes, hypothyroidism, gout, and a history of smoking and alcohol abuse.

NEWYORKER: The Hot Spotters