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Blood Business: the lucrative international trade in blood and plasma. Giving blood is a simple and selfless act that saves lives. For many, it’s a way of giving back to the community, expecting nothing in return. In Australia, blood donors receive a drink, a biscuit and heartfelt thanks. Overseas, it’s a different story. “It’s work. I’m providing a product. You know, I’m like a cow. I’m giving milk.” Plasma donor
In other countries, blood has become a lucrative commodity fuelling a global trade worth billions of dollars. “Healthcare is the perfect money-making industry. Our willingness to pay for available therapies basically, especially for our loved ones knows no bounds.” WHO spokesperson
Plasma, the vital blood component used by pharmaceutical companies to create expensive therapeutic drugs, is like liquid gold. “This is America. Everything is a big corporation out here. Without money nothing moves.” Plasma donor
