Cerus Corporation Celebrates World Blood Donor Day 2023: Ensuring Blood Safety and Availability

June 14, 2023

CONCORD, Calif.-- Cerus Corporation (Nasdaq: CERS) is delighted to join in celebrating World Blood Donor Day 2023. This global event, designated by the World Health Assembly in 2005, honors and expresses gratitude to donors worldwide for their invaluable contributions to the global blood supply. This year's World Blood Donor Day focuses on patients who depend on blood products throughout their lives, highlighting the significance of regular blood and plasma donations. With the theme "Give blood, give plasma, share life, share often," Cerus Corporation stands proud to be part of the blood donation community.

The Fragility of the Blood Supply

In recent years, the vulnerability of the blood supply has become increasingly apparent. William 'Obi' Greenman, Cerus' president and chief executive officer, emphasizes the essential role played by individuals who donate blood regularly. Their contributions are vital for the availability of blood products used in transfusions worldwide. Cerus Corporation is honored to support and collaborate with this community.

Despite continuous recruitment efforts by blood centers globally, the pool of available donors must be more extensive and geographically limited. Shockingly, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that high-income countries, constituting only 16% of the global population, collect 40% of the 118.5 million blood donations received annually worldwide. Patients with various medical conditions, such as cardiovascular surgery, transplant surgery, massive trauma, cancer, obstetrics, and childhood anemia, rely on regular blood transfusions for their well-being.

Addressing Blood Supply Challenges

Blood products for transfusion are indispensable in maintaining a functional healthcare system, yet shortages persist worldwide. Cerus Corporation remains dedicated to enhancing blood safety and availability through technological innovations. The company is committed to expanding donor eligibility when feasible, thus further promoting a sustainable blood supply.

The generosity of donors is crucial, whether it's meeting the daily transfusion requirements or preparing for potential pandemics. The blood supply relies on the selflessness and commitment of donors each day. Cerus Corporation recognizes the importance of World Blood Donor Day and is organizing a blood drive at its headquarters. The company encourages everyone to participate and support blood product availability in their local communities.

Ensuring Blood Safety and Availability

Cerus Corporation is a global leader focused on safeguarding the world's blood supply. Headquartered in Concord, California, the company develops and supplies vital technologies and pathogen-protected blood components to blood centers, hospitals, and patients who depend on safe blood transfusions. One of their key achievements is the INTERCEPT Blood System, which effectively reduces the risk of pathogens in platelets and plasma. It is the only pathogen reduction system with the CE mark and FDA approval for these two blood components. Cerus Corporation is also advancing the INTERCEPT red blood cell system, currently under regulatory review in Europe and in late-stage clinical development in United States. Additionally, the INTERCEPT Blood System for Cryoprecipitation has received approval in the US for the production of Pathogen Reduced Cryoprecipitated Fibrinogen Complex, a therapeutic product used to treat and control bleeding, including massive hemorrhage, associated with fibrinogen deficiency.

Conclusion

World Blood Donor Day is a momentous occasion to express gratitude to blood donors worldwide and raise awareness of importance of regular blood donations. Cerus Corporation's commitment to ensuring blood safety and availability through innovative technologies is commendable. Cerus Corporation plays a vital role in maintaining a reliable and secure blood supply chain by developing and supplying pathogen-protected blood components.

As the world's leading blood products company, Cerus Corporation is dedicated to safeguarding the global blood supply. Their INTERCEPT Blood System for platelets and plasma has proven to be most effective in reducing risk of pathogens. This system has obtained the CE mark and FDA approval, ensuring compliance with stringent safety standards. Cerus Corporation is also actively working towards advancing the INTERCEPT red blood cell system, which is currently under regulatory review in Europe and late-stage clinical development in the United States. The goal is to expand the range of blood components that can be protected from pathogens, further enhancing the safety of blood transfusions.

Moreover, Cerus Corporation's INTERCEPT Blood System for Cryoprecipitation has received approval in the United States to produce the Pathogen Reduced Cryoprecipitated Fibrinogen Complex. This therapeutic product has proven to be effective in treating and controlling bleeding, including cases of massive hemorrhage associated with fibrinogen deficiency. By providing such innovative solutions, Cerus Corporation addresses critical medical needs and improves patient outcomes.

In conclusion, World Blood Donor Day 2023 reminds us of the invaluable contributions of blood donors worldwide. Cerus Corporation recognizes the fragility of the blood supply and the importance of regular blood and plasma donations. Through its dedication to blood safety and availability, Cerus Corporation continues to develop and supply advanced technologies that contribute to a sustainable and secure blood supply chain. By participating in World Blood Donor Day and supporting local communities, we can all play a role in ensuring that patients in need receive the lifesaving blood products they require.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is World Blood Donor Day? World Blood Donor Day is a global event designated by the World Health Assembly to honor and express gratitude to donors worldwide for their crucial contributions to the global blood supply.

Why is blood donation significant? Blood donation is essential for maintaining an adequate supply of blood for transfusions. It plays a vital role in saving lives and supporting various medical procedures, such as surgeries, trauma care, and treatments for diseases like cancer and anemia.

How can I participate in World Blood Donor Day? You can participate in World Blood Donor Day by donating blood at your local blood center or in blood drives organized by organizations like Cerus Corporation.

What is Cerus Corporation's role in blood safety? Cerus Corporation is a global leader dedicated to safeguarding the world's blood supply. They develop and supply innovative technologies, such as the INTERCEPT Blood System, to reduce the risk of pathogens in blood components and ensure their safety.

How does the INTERCEPT Blood System work? The INTERCEPT Blood System employs pathogen reduction technology to inactivate various pathogens in platelets and plasma, including viruses, bacteria, and parasites. It helps enhance the safety of blood transfusions and protect patients from transfusion-transmitted infections.