SOUTHLAKE, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--ImmunoTek Bio Centers, the largest independent developer and operator of blood plasma donation centers in the United States, is excited to announce their participation in International Plasma Awareness Week (IPAW) from October 7-11, 2024. The community is invited to experience Plasma Mania happening during this special week in both divisions of ImmunoTek Bio Centers – ImmunoTek Plasma and Freedom Plasma. The week-long celebration is dedicated to raising awareness about the vital role plasma donations play in saving lives and improving patient outcomes worldwide.
In addition to customary financial compensation, ImmunoTek Plasma, and Freedom Plasma locations will celebrate Plasma Mania by offering donors a variety of fun activities, prize giveaways, and bonus opportunities as a token of appreciation for their invaluable contributions. These events are designed to recognize our dedicated donors and educate the community about the importance of plasma donation.
Plasma, the vital protein-rich component of blood, is in high demand worldwide. Donors in the United States supply two-thirds of the world's blood plasma used for manufacturing essential medicines and therapeutics, including treatments for primary immunodeficiencies (PID), bleeding disorders (e.g., Hemophilia), autoimmune diseases, severe burns, transplant patients, and other diseases.
Marvin Dyke, President and CEO of ImmunoTek Bio Centers, emphasized the significance of this week, stating, "International Plasma Awareness Week serves as an important reminder of the "why" behind our work—there are patients waiting. The goal of this week is to raise awareness of the critical role of plasma-derived therapeutics in saving lives and to recognize our donors who supply this vital raw material. Plasma Mania aims to bring some fun and excitement to the week and is a time for us to honor our donors for their valued and life-saving donations."
Many individuals with rare diseases and genetic disorders heavily rely on plasma-derived medicinal products to sustain their quality of life. Notably, treating just one patient for one year requires between 130 (PID) and 1200 (Hemophilia) plasma donations from healthy donors, underscoring the crucial importance of plasma donations.
Reed Smith, Vice President of Operations, added, "We are thrilled to participate in IPAW and to offer our donors exciting activities and rewards. It's our way of saying thank you and encouraging more people to join us in this life-saving mission. Plasma donations are essential for patients with various medical conditions, and each donor's contribution makes a difference."
To be eligible to donate plasma, our medical professionals conduct a medical screening that includes a medical history and physical exam. Donating plasma is similar to blood donation, but the process takes a little longer and allows donors to give more plasma. Plasma, the liquid portion of the blood, is separated from the red blood cells using a safe, sterile, self-contained automated process called plasmapheresis. After separation, the red blood cells and platelets are safely returned to the donor. Donors may safely give plasma up to twice a week, with one day between donations.
ImmunoTek is committed to providing safe, friendly, and professional plasma collection services. We proudly support the global effort to meet the growing demand for plasma-derived therapies.
For more information about International Plasma Awareness Week and how to participate, please visit our website at www.immunotek.com or www.freedomplasma.com or contact your nearest ImmunoTek Plasma or Freedom Plasma donation center. Together, we can make a difference!
ABOUT IMMUNOTEK BIO CENTERS, LLC
ImmunoTek Bio Centers LLC is the world's largest independent developer and operator of plasma collection centers. ImmunoTek partners with biopharmaceutical companies to develop high-performing, fit-for-purpose, cGMP-compliant plasma collection infrastructure—the front end of the supply chain for plasma-derived medicinal products. Since its inception in 2013, ImmunoTek has built and operated more than 80 plasma collection centers, all of which have obtained U.S. FDA licensure, and over half have obtained, or are pending, E.U. certification. For more information, visit ImmunoTek.com.
