How the Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association supports patients and donors around the world

Written by guest contributor Reid Herndon, PPTA Global Communications & Member Services Support Coordinator.

Every day, thousands of people around the world rely on plasma-derived therapies to manage rare, chronic, and life-threatening conditions. For individuals with primary immunodeficiencies like common variable immune deficiency (CVID) or X-linked agammaglobulinemia (XLA), as well as bleeding disorders, alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, and other serious diseases, these therapies are not optional—they are essential. 

The Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association’s (PPTA) mission is to promote access to safe and effective plasma protein therapies for patients worldwide. PPTA represents the collectors of source plasma and the manufacturers of plasma-derived therapies, working to ensure patients receive the treatments they need to lead healthy, productive lives. 

Plasma donation is at the heart of PPTA’s work. Unlike whole blood, plasma can be donated more frequently—up to twice a week—and is used to create therapies that are often the only treatment option for patients with rare diseases. 

For patients like Emma, who has lived with CVID since childhood, plasma-derived therapies are life-changing. Before starting treatments, she faced constant infections and repeated hospital stays. Now, thanks to regular plasma infusions, Emma is thriving—attending school, playing sports, and enjoying life like any other child her age. Her story is just one of many made possible by plasma donors.

To ensure every donation reaches patients safely and effectively, PPTA administers the International Quality Plasma Program (IQPP), which sets high standards for plasma collection. Through IQPP, PPTA prioritizes donor education, rigorous screening, and comprehensive testing, creating a safe and reliable supply of plasma. 

PPTA’s commitment to safety and quality extends globally. The organization works closely with regulators and international health agencies to strengthen standards for plasma collection and manufacturing. While plasma donation rates remain strong in countries like the United States and Germany, challenges persist elsewhere due to regulatory, policy, or infrastructure barriers. 

Some countries prohibit compensated plasma donation, even though it plays a critical role in maintaining supply. Others may lack sufficient collection networks or face delays in approval processes. These barriers can contribute to regional shortages and global imbalances in supply —affecting patients worldwide.

To address these challenges, PPTA advocates for evidence-based policies that recognize the unique nature of plasma and the rigorous processes used to ensure its safety. By working with global partners, PPTA promotes harmonization of regulations, expands public education about plasma’s role, and supports the development of sustainable collection systems in underserved regions.

Beyond advocacy, PPTA leads public awareness campaigns like International Plasma Awareness Week (IPAW) each October. This annual observance honors plasma donors and raises awareness of the lives transformed by plasma-derived therapies.

The need for plasma is constant. Manufacturing plasma-derived therapies is a complex process that can take seven to 12 months from donation to finished product. Any decline in donations—anywhere—can have global repercussions for patient access. 

Your donation could be someone’s lifeline. 

To learn more about plasma donation and find a center near you, visit www.pptaglobal.org/donate.