Why it matters: There is a global shortage of plasma medicines, and the NHS has previously relied solely on imported products – a lasting legacy of Variant Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease.
By the numbers: Over the past three years, blood donors in Suffolk have supplied around 4,400 litres of plasma, enough to make approximately 2,000 bottles of immunoglobulin, which can save or improve around 55 lives annually.
The big picture: Plasma makes up 55% of our blood and contains antibodies which strengthen or stabilise the immune system. These antibodies are separated and made into medicines which treat people with life-limiting illnesses such as immune deficiencies.
What they're saying: "Thanks to our amazing blood and plasma donors in Suffolk and across England, for the first time in a quarter of a century, patients are now receiving plasma medicines made from donations taken in England," said Daniel Cooper, NHSBT Assistant Director for Blood Donation Operations.
For context: Across the East of England, around 14,000 people receive immunoglobulin each year. In the last reported year, 157 patients received immunoglobulin at East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust.
The details: The new supply of UK plasma medicines will bolster supplies to the NHS, reducing reliance on imports which can be hit by supply reductions and price spikes.
How you can help: There are two ways to give plasma. Every blood donation in Suffolk may have its plasma used, or donors can visit specialist sites in Birmingham, London and Reading. A recovered plasma donation provides around 270 millilitres, while a dedicated plasma donation can yield between 560 and 700 millilitres.
Dr Susan Walsh, Chief Executive Officer of Immunodeficiency UK, called it "a historic moment" adding: "Patients from Suffolk can now get lifesaving and life-improving immunoglobulin medicine made from the plasma of UK blood and plasma donors."
The bottom line: The NHS needs more blood donors. Go to www.blood.co.uk to become a donor.
