Plasma Resilience: Europe's Lifeline
Medicines made from human plasma are essential for treating various conditions, including rare inherited disorders and immunodeficiencies.
Human plasma, which accounts for 55% of our blood, is a protein-rich liquid used to develop therapies for countless conditions.
Europe's supply chain of this valuable resource is vulnerable, relying on the generosity of real people, with over 12 million donors across Europe each year.
- Donations are governed by rigorous safety standards set by EU Member States.
- International safety standards, such as the International Quality Plasma Program (IQPP), also oversee the process.
- The Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association (PPTA) provides strict oversight.
Despite these efforts, nearly 40% of plasma used to make medicines for Europe must be imported from the United States.
Plasma is singularly human, existing only thanks to the generosity of real people.
Author's summary: Europe's plasma supply chain is vulnerable and needs strengthening.