Home / Health / Plasma Donors Face Life-Threatening Reactions
Plasma Donors Face Life-Threatening Reactions
19 Jun
Summary
- Multiple plasma donors experienced life-threatening conditions and hospitalization.
- Over 90% of serious adverse reactions occurred at Grifols-owned donation centers.
- A call for an independent review of Canada's plasma donation system is growing.
Recent data indicates that multiple plasma donors have faced life-threatening conditions, hospitalization, and other medical interventions following donations over the last decade. These incidents include heart attacks and blood clotting, with 27 serious adverse reactions reported between January 2016 and April 2026. Of these, 25 occurred at establishments now operated by Grifols, a Spain-based company.
Calls for a comprehensive independent review of Canada's plasma donation system are intensifying, particularly concerning the high percentage of serious adverse events linked to paid donation centers. Concerns have also been raised regarding Grifols' inspection history, with some centers going over a year without scheduled blood inspections. Following recent deaths in Winnipeg, investigations revealed deficiencies at Grifols locations, including issues with training and record-keeping.
Experts emphasize the need for greater transparency, advocating for public disclosure of adverse reaction data. The current regulatory approach is questioned, with a push for a thorough analysis akin to past public inquiries into blood safety. Grifols has stated its commitment to donor safety and compliance, noting that reported reactions represent a small proportion of total donations.
