In a country where blood products account for 2.69% of total exports, the U.S. dominates the global paid plasma market – supplying 94% of the world’s supply. For thousands like Mexican immigrant Eleazar Sanchez, this billion-dollar industry has become an unlikely lifeline.
Sanchez, who works as a nursing home assistant earning $1,200 monthly, relies on plasma \"donations\" to cover basic living costs. Twice weekly, he spends hours at donation centers, earning ~$500/month. 💵 \"It’s helpful, but I don’t want to do this forever,\" he confesses, echoing a sentiment shared by many immigrants navigating America’s high living costs.
While most countries ban compensated blood donations, the U.S. permits donors to sell plasma 104 times annually. Critics argue this creates an \"ethical gray zone,\" where vulnerable populations trade their biology for survival. 📈 With over 1,900 licensed plasma centers nationwide, the debate continues: life-saving resource or exploitative side hustle?
