Crooked Red Cross
The use of plasma, the liquid portion of blood, has become increasingly important in the medical field due to its ability to be processed into various life-saving medications. However, the plasma industry, particularly its reliance on blood donations from vulnerable populations, has raised ethical concerns and questions about the exploitation of individuals in need.
In a system shrouded in secrecy, the act of donating blood takes on a darker hue as it becomes a commodity for private companies, notably the Red Cross. This article unveils the unsettling truths behind the blood industry, particularly focusing on the lucrative plasma fractionation sector.
The Lucrative Plasma Market: More Valuable Than Oil
Plasma is a valuable commodity, with its price exceeding that of oil. The plasma fractionation industry, which separates plasma into its various components, purchases around 80,000 liters of plasma annually from the Red Cross alone. This plasma is then frozen, and processed into a range of pharmaceutical drugs, generating a global industry worth over $17 billion.
Exploitation of Vulnerable Communities
A significant portion of Europe’s plasma supply originates from the United States, particularly from the city of Cleveland, Ohio. This has led to concerns that companies are exploiting poor communities, especially those in predominantly Black neighborhoods, by enticing them to sell their blood for minimal financial compensation.
One such company, Octapharma, has been accused of targeting low-income areas in Cleveland, placing plasma donation centers near food banks and social service agencies. The company’s practices have raised concerns about predatory lending and the potential for individuals to become addicted to the small amounts of money they receive for donating plasma.
Health Risks of Excessive Plasma Donation
Donating plasma too frequently can pose health risks, including dehydration, anemia, and even protein deficiency. Additionally, the lack of thorough screening for drug use among plasma donors has raised concerns about the potential contamination of plasma with infectious diseases.
Drug-Contaminated Blood: A Silent Threat
Reveal a concerning aspect of the industry: drug users as primary participants. Explore the lack of thorough evaluation and the pervasive issue of plasma derived from blood contaminated with drugs.
Ethical Considerations and the Need for Regulation
The plasma industry highlights the complex intersection of health and profit, where the need for medical products clashes with the ethical concerns surrounding the exploitation of vulnerable populations. It is crucial for regulatory bodies to establish stricter guidelines and oversight to ensure that the plasma industry operates responsibly and ethically.
Commonly Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plasma Donation: What You Need to Know
Plasma is responsible for carrying proteins, hormones, and other nutrients throughout the body. Plasma is also used to make a variety of life-saving medications, such as clotting factors, albumin, and immune globulin.
What is plasma donation?
Plasma donation is a relatively safe and simple process that takes about one hour. During plasma donation, a small amount of blood is drawn from your arm and then separated into its components. The plasma is then collected and the remaining blood cells are returned to your body.
Who can donate plasma?
Most healthy adults can donate plasma. However, there are some medical conditions that may disqualify you from donating, such as heart disease, liver disease, and HIV/AIDS. You must also be at least 18 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in good health.
How often can I donate plasma?
You can donate plasma up to twice a week. However, there is a waiting period of 24 hours between donations.
What are the benefits of donating plasma?
Donating plasma can help to save lives. Plasma is used to make a variety of life-saving medications, and there is a shortage of plasma donors. Donating plasma can also help you to earn extra money. Most plasma donation centers will pay you for your donation.
What are the risks of donating plasma?
Donating plasma is a safe process, but there are some potential risks, such as:
- Dehydration: It is important to drink plenty of fluids before and after donating plasma.
- Lightheadedness: You may feel lightheaded or dizzy after donating plasma. This is usually temporary and can be relieved by resting and drinking fluids.
- Bruising: There is a small risk of bruising at the injection site.
- Infection: There is a very small risk of infection at the injection site.
How can I find a plasma donation center near me?
I would not advise anyone to donate plasma, unless to a trustworthy company that truly helps people in need. There are many plasma donation centers located throughout the United States. You can find a plasma donation center near you by using a search engine or visiting the website of a plasma donation company. If a company is trustworthy then:
Encourage readers to contribute to the community by donating blood while emphasizing the importance of regular check-ups for their health.
Conclusion
The plasma industry serves as a reminder of the need to balance medical advancements with ethical considerations. While plasma plays a vital role in producing life-saving medications, its procurement should not come at the expense of exploiting vulnerable individuals. Addressing the ethical concerns surrounding plasma donation is essential for ensuring a responsible and sustainable plasma industry.
