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.
The plasma supply chain in Europe 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 overseen by the Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association (PPTA).
Despite this, nearly 40% of plasma used for European medicines is imported from the United States, highlighting the need to strengthen the plasma supply chain.
Plasma is singularly human, existing only thanks to the generosity of real people, and cannot be produced in a lab like many other therapies.
A strong and resilient plasma supply chain is essential for Europe's healthcare system, and it is crucial that we take action to strengthen it now.
Author's summary: Europe's plasma supply chain is vulnerable and needs strengthening.