Plasma fractionation in Latin America: a path towards sovereignty and sustainability in the supply of plasma-derived medicines.

Abstract

The supply of plasma-derived medicinal products (PDMPs) is a critical global challenge, especially in low and middle-income countries. In Latin America, thousands of liters of plasma are discarded annually. This work proposes alternative and concrete strategies to initiate plasma fractionation in Latin America. The Hemoderivatives Laboratory of the National University of Córdoba (LHUNC) has implemented a successful regional cooperation model with Uruguay, Chile, and Paraguay. This exchange system allows countries to deliver plasma and receive PDMPs without the need to transfer foreign currency, overcoming barriers such as the lack of national blood plans or low initial collection volumes. In conclusion, the LHUNC experience demonstrates that plasma utilization through proximity alliances is an ethical and financially viable alternative to achieve health sovereignty and reduce regional vulnerability to global market volatility.