New Global Survey Shines a Light on the Patients Who Rely on Plasma-Derived Medicines--and the Donors Who Make Them Possible

New findings show how plasma-derived medicines support people living with a range of health conditions, with 69% noticing a change in their health – or the health of someone they care for – within a few months and 77% expressing gratitude to plasma donors.

WASHINGTON, Oct. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ --

• More than two-thirds of respondents (69%) noticed a change in their health – or the health of someone they care for – within a few months of beginning a plasma-derived medicine.
  
  
• About two in three respondents reported that they – or someone they care for – receive plasma-derived medicines at least once a month, including 41% who receive treatment weekly.
  
  
• 87% of patients are confident in the safety and efficacy of plasma-derived medicines.

As International Plasma Awareness Week (IPAW) begins on October 5, a new global survey conducted by the Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association (PPTA) and analyzed by SSRS finds that most respondents describe themselves as grateful to plasma donors.

An international survey of more than 1,100 patients, caregivers, healthcare providers and patient advocates found high confidence in plasma-derived medicines and deep gratitude for the donors who make them possible.

"Millions of people around the world rely on plasma-derived medicines to treat a variety of serious medical conditions, including rare, chronic diseases such as immunodeficiencies, bleeding disorders, and autoimmune conditions. Behind every one of these treatments is the generosity of a plasma donor," said PPTA President and CEO Anita Brikman. "The survey shows just how much of a difference plasma-derived medicines make in people's lives. It puts that connection between donor and patient into perspective, showing not only the life-changing impact of these therapies, but also the deep gratitude patients and families feel toward the donors who make them possible. During International Plasma Awareness Week, we are proud to celebrate plasma donors and remind the world that plasma truly powers possibility."

Download multimedia: https://bit.ly/4w0RyTc, password: plasmaislife

Who depends on plasma donation?

People worldwide depend on plasma-derived medicines, including many living with primary immunodeficiencies and other serious health conditions.

For many people, plasma-derived medicines are an ongoing necessity. About two in three respondents reported that they – or someone they care for – receive treatment at least once a month, including 41% who receive treatment weekly.

Nearly half of survey respondents shared that they – or someone they care for – receive plasma-derived medicines for an immunodeficiency, 18% for a bleeding or blood disorder, 16% for a neurological condition, and 15% for a lung-related illness.

The age at which treatment began varied, but the largest share (49%) said they – or someone they care for – first received a plasma-derived medicine between the ages of 36 and 64.

Many respondents reported noticing a change in health relatively quickly after treatment began. More than two-thirds (69%) noticed a change in their health – or the health of someone they care for – within a few months of beginning a plasma-derived medicine, including 26% who noticed a change within just a few days.

The swift impact reported by patients and their caregivers reinforces the gratitude many feel and the power of plasma donation.

"We get to make memories together as a family because of plasma. This amazing gift of life is with us every single moment of every day and travels with us wherever we go," said Christy Savino, a plasma recipient diagnosed with a primary immunodeficiency.

How do patients and caregivers feel about plasma donation?

Respondents expressed strong gratitude toward plasma donors and high confidence in the safety and efficacy of plasma-derived medicines. More than three-fourths (77%) described themselves as grateful to plasma donors, and most patients (87%) expressed confidence in the safety and efficacy of their plasma-derived medicines.

"I'm grateful that this year's IPAW campaign is shining a light on the people and families living with immunodeficiencies and other rare diseases. For so many patients, plasma-derived medicines aren't just treatments," said Jorey Berry, President and CEO of the Immune Deficiency Foundation. "They're what help make everyday life possible, which is why every plasma donation matters so deeply. Plasma powers possibility, and I hope IPAW inspires more people to roll up their sleeves, donate, and help give patients the chance to live healthier, fuller lives."

People around the world rely on plasma-derived medicines. International Plasma Awareness Week serves as a moment to recognize the people who benefit from these medicines and express gratitude to the donors who make these medications possible. For more information on their stories, to find a donation center or learn more about plasma donation, visit plasmaweek.org.

Digital Assets Available for Media

• Survey results and methodology
• Patient interview with Christy Savino
• Donor interview with Antonio Savino
• B-roll and photos of plasma donation
• Additional information about International Plasma Awareness Week

Survey Methodology

The survey had 1,167 completed interviews conducted online via SurveyMonkey. Data was provided to SSRS for formal analysis in August 2026.

About the Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association

The Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association (PPTA) represents a unique sector of the biologics and biotechnology industry dedicated to developing and manufacturing lifesaving plasma-derived therapies.

PPTA members:

• More than 1,000 plasma collection centers across North America and Europe.
• Produce approximately 80% of plasma protein therapies used in the United States.
• Manufacture approximately 60% of plasma protein therapies used in Europe.
• Support the development of therapies that improve and save the lives of patients around the world.

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

Media Contact:[email protected]

SOURCE The Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association