Plasma protein Therapies Association Focuses Attention on Donors and ...( Texas Lawmak...),Health

Texas Lawmakers Proclaimed August as "Plasma Protein Therapies Month"

Texas (Vocus) August 19, 2009 -- The contributions of voluntary plasma donors and the issue of treating critically ill patients with plasma protein therapies was recognized by Texas lawmakers in June when they proclaimed August "Plasma Protein Therapies Month" in the Lone Star State.

"Patients requiring plasma protein therapies have serious diseases and disorders and need to be assured that they will continue to have access to those treatments," said Josh Penrod, Vice President, Source for the Plasma Protein Therapy Association. "The collection of high-quality plasma from dedicated donors, like those in Texas, is a crucial component in the production of these therapies."

Plasma protein therapies include a treatment for primary immunodeficiency diseases, alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, also known as genetic emphysema, and for blood clotting disorders such as hemophilia. In addition, a plasma protein therapy is used in critical care settings, when treating severe trauma, burns and during major surgery. Plasma protein therapies refer to plasma-derived therapies and their recombinant analogs.

Hundreds of Texans each year donate plasma at 48 collection centers in Texas to help create therapies that save the lives of thousands of people across the nation. In fact, Texas has the most plasma donation centers in the nation.

This recognition raises awareness of the rare, genetic diseases treated with the therapies and to honor '/>"/>