ABOUT International Plasma Awareness Week (IPAW)
Learn about International Plasma Awareness Week and how to get involved in your area.
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What IS IPAW
International Plasma Awareness Week IPAW is held annually during the first week of October to raise global awareness about source plasma collection, recognize the valued contributions of donors, and increase understanding about plasma protein therapies and rare diseases.
Plasma — the straw-colored, liquid portion of blood — contains proteins necessary for the human body to carry out critical functions in the human body, such as creating antibodies to fight diseases and clotting factors to regulate bleeding. If a person has insufficient levels of any one plasma protein, his/her body cannot carry out these vital functions, causing a variety of chronic and life-threatening medical conditions.
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Since 2013, IPAW has been a coordinated and joint effort of the Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association (PPTA) and its member companies to raise greater awareness about the importance of donating plasma. Many people living with life-threatening, chronic, and genetic diseases rely on plasma as a treatment.
Unlike traditional pharmaceuticals, the source material for most plasma protein therapies is human plasma. PPTA and its members work every day to raise awareness for this unique human biologic and its lifesaving properties.
IPAW is a dedicated week to show appreciation of the dedicated donors who help save the lives of patients. This year’s IPAW will be celebrated from October 7-11 and feature a brand new logo to emphasize a renewed energy and emphasis on this annual event.
2024 IPAW Focus Areas
Also new this year – when you follow PPTA across social media, you’ll see each day has its own theme. Social media toolkits and resources will also provide information relevant to each theme. Look for more details in the resources section.
Patient Access
Rare Disease & Everyday Use
Advocacy
Donor Health & Safety
Donor Appreciation
ipaw Objectives
Awareness
Raise global awareness about source plasma collection.
Recognition
Recognize the contributions of plasma donors in saving and improving the lives of patients living with rare and/or genetic conditions around the world.
Understanding
Increase understanding about lifesaving plasma protein therapies and rare diseases.
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Who is IPAW for AND HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED?
IPAW is for everyone! Patients around the world rely on plasma protein therapies and this underscores the value of plasma donation. From the person who may just be looking for ways to help their neighbor to policymakers who can impact regulations – there is a need to increase the understanding and appreciation for plasma donation. IPAW celebrations are occurring this fall in North America, Europe, and around the globe. Click below to find resources and get involved in your area.
how to donate?
Donating plasma is safe and simple. Find a plasma center near you and make an appointment to donate soon to make a lifesaving difference for patients and families.
about PPTA
The Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association (PPTA) is a dynamic trade association that represents a unique sector of the biologics and biotechnology industry. PPTA represents more than 1,000 human plasma collection centers in North America and Europe, as well as the manufacturers of lifesaving plasma protein therapies. Our members produce approximately 80% of the plasma protein therapies in the U.S. and 60% of those manufactured in Europe
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