The Lucrative Blood Trade: The Dark Side of Blood Donation

TLDRBlood donation is seen as a noble act, but the reality is that it has become a lucrative industry. The majority of donated blood is sold to pharmaceutical companies, who use it to produce expensive drugs. This practice is hidden from the public, who believe they are donating for free. In the USA, donors are paid for their plasma, but the amount they receive is minimal compared to the profits made by the companies. Many people donate plasma as a way to make extra money in times of financial hardship.

Key insights

💉The majority of donated blood is sold to pharmaceutical companies for the production of expensive medications.

💰Donors in the USA are paid for their plasma, but the amount they receive is minimal compared to the profits made by the companies.

🔍The plasma industry is worth $17 billion and controlled by a few large companies.

🌍Plasma is collected, frozen, and mixed to create drugs that are used globally.

💔Donors often donate plasma out of financial necessity and not for altruistic reasons.

Q&A

Is blood donation really free?

While blood donation is commonly believed to be a free act, the reality is that donated blood is sold to pharmaceutical companies for profit.

Who controls the plasma industry?

The plasma industry is controlled by a few large companies, including CSL in the USA and OCTA Pharma in Switzerland.

How much do plasma donors get paid?

In the USA, plasma donors receive compensation, but the amount they receive is minimal compared to the profits made by the companies.

What is plasma used for?

Plasma is used to create valuable proteins that are used in the production of expensive medications.

Why do people donate plasma?

Many people donate plasma as a way to earn extra money in times of financial hardship.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Blood donation is seen as a symbol of generosity, but the reality is different.

02:30The majority of donated blood is sold to pharmaceutical companies for profit.

06:00The plasma industry is worth $17 billion and controlled by a few large companies.

13:00In the USA, donors are paid for their plasma, but the amount they receive is minimal compared to the profits made by the companies.

19:00Many people donate plasma as a way to make extra money in times of financial hardship.