Blood cancer patient is first in generation to receive blood plasma medicine from UK donors

Since a longstanding ban on UK plasma was lifted in 2021, the UK has been building its own supply of plasma medicines amid a global shortage.

The government suggests treatments will help save 17,000 NHS patients’ lives every year. This includes people with blood cancer who use transfusions to help manage infections, who require vital human-donated plasma improve their lives. The blood plasma is also used in emergency medicine for childbirth and trauma care.

Gemma Trout, support nurse at Blood Cancer UK, said:
“For some people with blood cancer, plasma derived transfusions or immunoglobulin transfusions are a vital part of treatment. While they do not treat the blood cancer itself, they can support the immune system that is weakened due to the blood cancer. They can help manage symptoms and improve overall wellbeing. Many, like Jill, the first patient to receive UK-sourced plasma medicine, rely on these transfusions to stay well.

“Jill has non-Hodgkin lymphoma, a type of blood cancer, and transfusions have been life-changing for her—helping prevent infections and keep her out of hospital. 280,000 people in the UK are living with blood cancer, in fact it’s the UK’s third biggest cancer killer. The news that UK-sourced plasma is now being used is a step forward in securing a reliable, homegrown supply of these vital treatments, which will ensure blood cancer patients continue to have access to the treatments they need to live well.

“If anyone has questions about blood transfusions or anything to do with blood cancer, our support service is here to help. Call us on 0808 2080 888 for free and confidential support."