Plasma Resilience: Europe's Lifeline
Human plasma, a protein-rich liquid making up 55% of our blood, is crucial for developing therapies for various conditions, including rare inherited disorders and immunodeficiencies.
Despite its importance, Europe's plasma supply chain is vulnerable, relying on donations from over 12 million people annually, governed by EU and international safety standards, such as the International Quality Plasma Program (IQPP) and oversight by the Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association (PPTA).
However, this is still insufficient, with nearly 40% of plasma used for European medicines being imported from the United States.
Plasma is singularly human, existing only thanks to the generosity of real people, as therapies made from it cannot be produced in a lab.
A strong and stable plasma supply chain is essential for Europe's healthcare system.
Author's summary: Europe relies on plasma donations.