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Health: plasma, this “gold” at the sources of an exploding market
Health: plasma, this “gold” at the sources of an exploding market – (france 2)
Rich in protein, this component of human blood has the ability to treat rare diseases. For several years, requests for blood transfusion have increased sharply, particularly in the United States.
Of “gold”. An essential component of human blood, plasma makes it possible to manufacture vital medications for certain patients. A health interest that mixes with commercial interests. Laboratories are waging a trade war to monopolize plasma, which is worth 31 billion euros worldwide. Some worry about its commodification.
Lure of profits
In the United States, the milestone has been reached. Donation centers pay people who come to donate their plasma. “The first levy is paid 40 dollars, the second 100 dollars”, explains a receptionist at an establishment located in Baltimore, Maryland. Taking advantage of the socio-economic difficulty of certain people, laboratories have caused numerous centers to flourish, such as on the Mexican border or near universities.
