October 6, 2025
Every day, thousands of people around the world depend on medicines made from donated plasma to stay healthy and live normal lives. Yet many people don't know these treatments exist or understand how plasma donation works. That's why International Plasma Awareness Week (IPAW) matters.
What IPAW Is All About
The Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association (PPTA) and its member companies launched IPAW in 2013 with three simple goals that remain unchanged today:
- Raise awareness about plasma collection worldwide
- Recognize plasma donors who make treatment possible
- Help people understand plasma-derived medicines and the rare diseases they treat
A Global Effort
Over the years, IPAW has grown into a truly global effort. Plasma donation centres use the week to welcome their communities and honour long-time donors. Patient organisations release stories — in videos, on social media, and in writing — showing what steady access to treatment means in daily life. Industry and healthcare professionals also take part, using the week to publish new data, highlight safety standards, and explain innovations in donation and manufacturing. Policymakers and advocacy groups join the conversation too, adding their voices to discussions about how to strengthen plasma supply chains. Step by step, this week has boosted public understanding of plasma donation and its significance.
As PPTA President and CEO Anita Brikman explains:
“International Plasma Awareness Week is a powerful reminder of how one donation can change a life,” stated Anita Brikman, President and CEO of the Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association. “It’s a time to honor the compassion of donors and to raise awareness about the critical role plasma plays in modern medicine.”
This Year's Theme: Plasma Powers Possibility
The theme of this year’s campaign is Plasma Powers Possibility. It highlights what becomes possible when patients have access to plasma-derived medicines.
Laura Rohe, an infusion nurse who also lives with CVID, sees this every day: “Many of my patients feel thankful to be on therapy and to finally have a diagnosis, whether it is primary immune deficiency or hereditary angioedema.”
For plasma donors, plasma donation creates the possibility to make a real difference in someone else's life. Pauline Meßner, a regular plasma donor, captures this feeling perfectly: "Knowing that my plasma turns into a lifesaving medicine is absolutely heartwarming."
And what about the professionals who make it all happen? For people working in plasma centers, laboratories, and manufacturing facilities, "Plasma Powers Possibility" represents their daily mission: keeping the entire chain running smoothly from donor to patient.
Get Involved
IPAW 2025 begins this week, and everyone can take part. Whether you are a healthcare professional, work in the plasma sector, or simply want to learn more, there are resources ready to help you share the message.
Visit plasmaweek.org to:
- Download compelling visuals and infographics
- Access personal patient stories and testimonials
- Find advocacy materials you can customize for your networks
- Discover ways to get involved in your local area
- Learn more about plasma donation and the conditions these medicines treat
“Together, during IPAW and beyond, we can ensure plasma-derived medicines remain available for the patients who depend on them.” – Marilena Vrana, Vice President, Public Affairs & EU Operations, PPTA