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More middle-class Americans are turning to the plasma industry as a source of extra income, fueling rapid growth in a business that now stretches into suburbs, college towns, and shopping centers nationwide. Across the United States, an estimated 200,000 people a day sell plasma, according to research cited by Georgetown University professor Peter Jaworski. In 2024 alone, Americans sold roughly 62.5 million liters of plasma, generating about $4.7 billion. That marks an increase of more than 30 percent in plasma collected since 2022. The expansion is visible. There are now more than 1,200 plasma centers operating across the country, with new locations continuing to open. The United States also supplies about 70 percent of the world’s plasma, exporting billions of dollars’ worth each year. Industry leaders say the system works because it balances patient demand with financial incentives for donors. Anita Brikman, head of the Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association, said the industry hopes more people see plasma donation as both practical and meaningful. “We hope that when people consider donating plasma, it is not only something that you would consider at a time of need, but something that you might make part of your altruistic endeavors,” Brikman said. “People think about blood donation that way, and we hope that more people would think about plasma donation.” Turning donated plasma into treatments is a lengthy process that can take up to a year. The plasma is screened for viruses, then purified so proteins and antibodies can be extracted. According to the Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association, it can take plasma from more than 100 donors to support one patient for a year. Companies emphasize that compensation reflects time and commitment rather than payment for the plasma itself. BioLife, owned by Takeda, said in a statement, “People choose to donate plasma for a variety of reasons. Whether for personal motivations, a desire to give back, or to receive compensation for their time and commitment, we recognize and appreciate everyone who graciously donates plasma. In line with industry practice, BioLife compensates plasma donors in recognition for their time and effort. The level of compensation may vary depending on center location and if someone is an existing or new donor.” Federal regulators have allowed individuals to donate plasma up to twice a week since the 1970s. While some studies have examined the health effects of frequent donation, long-term research remains limited. As global demand for plasma-based therapies continues to grow, industry officials argue that financial incentives remain essential to maintaining supply in the United States and abroad.

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