May 20, 2021

As a plasma donor at DB Plasma, there are several ways you can go about earning extra money while simultaneously helping to create important life-saving therapies. With our new and improved referral rewards program, in particular, you get the opportunity to earn up to $50 per referral! 

Want to learn more about what this new program entails and how you can participate? Keep reading to find out!

How to Participate in DB Plasma’s New Referral Rewards Program

Referring friends or family members to donate plasma is a simple three-step process that involves the following:

1. Send a text message, WhatsApp message, Facebook message, Instagram DM, or Twitter DM to the person you’re referring.
2. Include your full name in the message.
3. Have the referee show the message to our reception staff after they donate.

We recommend that you review the eligibility requirements for plasma donation to better your chances of successfully referring a donor and receiving your compensation!

How Compensation Works for DB Plasma’s Referral Rewards Program

DB Plasma’ new donor referral program is a tiered system that gives donors the opportunity to up to $50 per referral. Here’s how it works:

For example, if you refer two donors in a month, you will receive $25 for each referral and earn a total of $50 that month. If you refer six donors in a month, you will receive $35 for each referral and earn a total of $210. If you refer seven donors in a month, you will receive $45 for each referral and earn a total of $315. If you refer 10+ donors in a month, you will receive $50 per referral! Please note that referees must complete their plasma donation at some point during the month that they were referred to be counted as a referred donor. 

Reasons to Refer a Friend or Family Member to Donate Plasma

Not only is our referral program a great way to boost your compensation, but it’s also an excellent way to further contribute to the creation of life-saving therapies. Hundreds of donations are needed to create the plasma-derived products that immunocompromised patients rely on. Every year, it takes 130 plasma donations to treat one person with primary immunodeficiency disease and 900 donations to treat one person with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. 

The more plasma donations that are made, the more likely it is that someone living with a rare and chronic condition will receive the treatments they rely on. By referring a friend or family member to donate plasma, you can make a big difference in someone else’s life and get compensated in the process! Every donation helps. 

April 29, 2021

From autoimmune disorders to immunodeficiencies to rare blood disorders, plasma, a protein-rich component of blood, is capable of treating a wide range of medical conditions. Von Willebrand disease is one such condition. If you’d like to learn more about what exactly von Willebrand disease is and how human plasma can be used to manage it, we’ll be unpacking all of that in this blog. 

What is Von Willebrand Disease?

Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is a lifelong bleeding disorder that causes blood to not clot properly. The majority of people with this disorder are born with it and inherit it from either one or both of their parents. VWD affects men and women equally, though women are more likely to notice the symptoms of the condition. 

What are the Symptoms of Von Willebrand Disease?

Symptoms of von Willebrand disease oftentimes do not show up for many years. They can also be mild or completely absent, leaving many not knowing that they have the condition. 

The most common symptom of VWD is abnormal bleeding. Symptoms of bleeding may include:

• Recurring or prolonged nosebleeds
• Bleeding from the gums
• Heavy or long menstrual bleeding
• Excessive bleeding after an injury, surgery, or dental work
• Blood in stool or urine

Individuals with VWD may also bruise easily and/or get bruises with a lump in them. 

What Causes Von Willebrand Disease?

Our blood contains many proteins that are needed for it to properly clot. One of those proteins is called von Willebrand factor (VFW). Von Willebrand disease occurs when someone has either a low level of VWF or the VWF protein doesn’t function like it is supposed to. 

There are three major types of VWD: Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3. 

• Type 1: People who have VWD Type 1 have lower-than-normal levels of VWF. This is the most common and mildest form of the condition. 
• Type 2: With Type 2 VWD, the body makes normal amounts of VWF, but it does not function the way it should. 
• Type 3: This form of VWD is the most severe. Individuals with Type 3 VWD have very little or no VWF and low levels of factor VIII, which is another essential blood-clotting protein. 

How is Von Willebrand Disease Treated?

Although von Willebrand disease cannot be cured, there are a number of treatments that can be used to manage the condition. The treatments a patient with VWD receives depend on the type and severity of their condition. 

Desmopressin (DDAVP) is a synthetic hormone that makes the body release more VWF into the blood. It can be administered via an injection or through a nasal spray and is used to treat those with milder forms of VWD. 

Plasma-derived VWF-containing concentrates, like Alphanate and Vovendi, can be used to treat individuals with more severe forms of VWD. They can also be used to treat patients who don’t respond well to DDAVP. These medications are intravenously administered to replace the missing factor in the blood. 

By donating plasma, you can help patients with rare conditions like von Willebrand disease receive the treatments they need to lead a healthier life. Visit the eligibility page of our website to find out if you can donate plasma at DB Plasma. We’re always happy to welcome new donors to our centres! 

April 24, 2021

Plasma donation is an incredible act that can change the lives of others for the better. It can also be a great way to make some extra money if you live in a province where paid plasma donations are permitted. 

If you’re thinking about becoming a plasma donor and are wondering what the process will entail, you’re in luck! Here’s the ultimate guide to plasma donation for first-time donors.

What is plasma?

Plasma is a yellowish liquid component of blood that contains vital proteins. It helps to maintain blood pressure and volume, carries electrolytes to our muscles, supports cell function, and supplies critical proteins for blood clotting and immunity. When healthy plasma is donated, it can be used to treat a wide range of autoimmune diseases, immune deficiencies, and blood disorders.

Am I eligible to donate plasma?

In order to donate plasma, you must be in good health and meet certain eligibility requirements. At DB Plasma, donors must meet the following requirements:

• Be between 17 and 68 years of age.
• Weigh between 50 kg to 180 kg.
• Have not had a tattoo or piercing done in the past six months.
• Have not donated blood in the past 56 days.
• Have a permanent address within 100 kilometres of a DB Plasma facility.

At your first appointment, you will be asked to present valid photo identification, proof of address, and a social insurance card. You will also undergo a screening process that involves answering a questionnaire, being interviewed, and having a medical examination and testing performed on two separate occasions within a 26-week period.

What is the process to donate plasma?

If you meet all the eligibility requirements to become a plasma donor, you can then proceed to the donation portion of the plasma donation process. Plasma is collected through a specialized donation procedure known as plasmapheresis. During the plasmapheresis procedure, you will be intravenously connected to a medical device known as an apheresis machine that will separate plasma from whole blood and return the rest of your blood to your body. This portion of the plasma donation process takes approximately 50 minutes to complete.

After you’ve completed your plasma donation, you will be encouraged to rest, relax, and enjoy refreshments in our centre’s waiting room for 10 minutes. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re currently keeping snacks and drinks behind our reception desk, but our reception staff are always more than willing to hand them out when donors ask! During this time, you can also schedule your next appointment.

How long does it take to donate blood plasma?

From start to finish, you can expect the entire plasma donation process, including the registering and screening portions, to take approximately two hours and 30 minutes as a first-time donor. Subsequent donation appointments will be easier and faster. Appointments for repeat donors typically take around one hour and 30 minutes.

Are plasma donations paid or unpaid?

Both paid and unpaid plasma donations exist in Canada. Whether or not you’ll be compensated for your plasma donation depends on where you live and what company you’re making the donation with. 

At DB Plasma, we compensate our donors for the time and effort they put into giving plasma. Donors at our centres in Saskatoon and Moncton have the opportunity to earn up to $400/month for their contributions. We also have monthly prize draws where donors are automatically entered to win $100 gift cards if they give plasma during that month!

Plasma donation is a great way to give back and get some much-needed me-time. As a donor at DB Plasma, you can also supplement your income with the compensation you receive for your donations. If you’d like to become a plasma donor, book an appointment at a centre near you today!

March 30, 2021

Plasma is a protein-rich component of blood that can be used to treat a wide range of medical conditions. In order for donated plasma to actually be manufactured into life-saving therapies, however, it must first meet certain quality standards. Thankfully, as a plasma donor, there are things you can do to give your plasma the best chance of being put to good use. Keep reading to find out what they are!

What Is Considered Healthy Plasma?

There are rigorous screening processes that have been put in place to ensure that only healthy pools of plasma are used for therapeutic purposes. At plasma collection centres, donors must meet certain eligibility requirements and undergo medical examinations before giving plasma. Once their plasma is collected, centre staff check to see whether it’s discoloured or cloudy. Healthy plasma is pale-yellow and clear.

It can take anywhere from seven to twelve months for plasma protein therapies to be manufactured from the time a donation is made to the time it is ready to be given to a patient. After blood plasma leaves the collection centre, samples are tested for indicators of viral infections. Plasma products are then further safeguarded by advanced pathogen reduction processes. Only after this extensive manufacturing process is plasma considered safe to use.

The Dos and Don’ts of Plasma Donation

There are plenty of things you can do to improve the quality of your plasma as a donor. Here’s a list of dos and don’ts you should consider.

Do:

• Drinking lots of water the day before and the day of your plasma donation appointment, ideally six to eight cups. The amount of water you drink directly affects how full your vein will be and how your plasma is separated.
• Eat a healthy meal that’s iron and protein-rich within two hours of donating. Iron-rich foods include broccoli, beans, leafy greens, chicken, and turkey. Foods high in protein include nuts, eggs, cheese, and yogurt.
• Get a good night’s rest prior to donating. The more rested you are, the smoother and quicker your recovery will be. Your donation will also be more plentiful.

Don’t:

• Drink alcohol for at least 24 hours prior to donating. Alcohol is a diuretic that can cause dehydration and make plasma donation more difficult.
• Drink caffeine, in any form, on the day of your plasma donation appointment. Caffeine can cause blood vessels to constrict, making finding a vein and returning the non-plasma portions of blood back to the donor more challenging. 
• Eat fatty foods like potato chips, pizza, and fries the day of your plasma donation appointment. These foods can negatively impact your blood tests and contribute to cloudy plasma.
• Use tobacco or cannabis for at least eight hours prior to donating. Smoking tobacco before giving plasma can lead to an increase in blood pressure. Smoking cannabis in this time period will lead to at least a one-day deferral. 

By following these tips and tricks, you can rest easy knowing you’ve done everything on your part to ensure your plasma can be used for the greater good. Book your next plasma donation appointment today to put them into practice!  

March 24, 2021

Blood donation and plasma donation are both incredible acts that can help save lives. Given the fact that plasma is the main component of blood, these two processes are often confused with one another. While they do share some similarities, in actuality, they are quite different. Read on to learn more about the difference between blood donation and plasma donation!

What Is Blood Donation?

Whole blood donations are considered to be the most flexible type of donation. Since whole blood contains red cells, white cells, platelets, and plasma, it can either be separated into its specific components post-donation or transfused in its original form. Donation times for whole blood donations average around eight to 10 minutes.

What Is Plasma Donation?

During a plasma-only donation, plasma, the yellowish liquid component of blood, is separated from blood cells and blood cells are returned to the bloodstream. This is done through a process known as plasmapheresis, which involves donors being intravenously connected to a medical device known as an apheresis machine. The plasmapheresis portion of the plasma donation process takes approximately 50 minutes to complete.

The Main Differences Between Donating Blood and Donating Plasma

Besides the differences in the blood donation and plasma donation processes, there are also major differences between the two when it comes to their end uses and donor compensation.

When whole blood is separated into its individual components, it can be used to treat cancer patients and patients with rare diseases, depending on the blood component that is being used. Plasma donations, on the other hand, are used to manufacture life-saving treatments for patients with autoimmune disorders, immunodeficiencies, and blood disorders. People who receive plasma-derived treatments, including intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) therapies, must do so on a regular basis and they rely on these treatments to manage their conditions.

In terms of compensation, blood donors are not compensated for their contributions in Canada. Some provinces in Canada, however, do permit paid plasma donations.

Since plasma donation is a more time-consuming process than blood donation, it makes sense that plasma donors would be compensated for their time and effort. Plasma donors are also able to donate much more frequently than blood donors are due to the fact that blood cells are returned to the donor during the plasma donation process, which is yet another reason why they should be compensated. Plasma donors can safely donate twice a week whereas male blood donors can only donate once every eight weeks and female blood donors can only donate once every twelve weeks.  

In addition, compensating plasma donors has been proven to be the only way to make sure there’s a secure supply of plasma for patients who need it. At DB Plasma, we’re proud to offer paid plasma donations at our centres in Saskatoon and Moncton, and we plan to continue this practice as we expand our business.

Now that you’re well aware of the differences between donating blood and donating plasma, we hope you can go into your donation appointment feeling more prepared. We’re always happy to accept new donors at DB Plasma, so feel free to book an appointment at a centre near you!

February 25, 2021

Plasma donation is a great way to give back to patients in need while also supplementing your income. It is a fulfilling experience from start to finish, and there are many benefits to becoming a plasma donor. With that said, if you’re not too familiar with plasma donation, you may have some questions that need to be answered before you decide to become a donor. Lucky for you, we’re going to be answering commonly asked questions about plasma donation that’ll help clear things up!

How does blood plasma donation work?

Plasma is a protein-rich liquid portion of blood. Roughly 55% of our blood is made up of plasma. In order to collect plasma and separate it out from our blood, plasma donors undergo a process known as plasmapheresis.

During plasmapheresis, donors are intravenously connected to an apheresis machine that separates the plasma portion of blood from blood cells then returns blood cells to the donor. This process takes approximately 50 minutes from start to finish.

For first-time donors, the donation process, which consists of registering, screening, donating, and relaxing, can take up to two and a half hours. Repeat donors are typically at our centres for about one hour and 30 minutes.

Who can donate plasma?

Certain eligibility requirements have been put in place to ensure only viable plasma is used to manufacture life-saving treatments. At DB Plasma, we accept donors who:

• Are between 17 and 68 years of age.
• Weigh between 50 kg to 180 kg.
• Have not had a tattoo or piercing done in the past 12 months.
• Have not donated blood in the past 56 days.
• Have a permanent address within 100 kilometres of a DB Plasma facility.
• Present valid photo identification, proof of address, social insurance card.
• Qualify to donate. This involves a process that includes a questionnaire, an interview, a medical examination and testing on two separate occasions within a 26-week period.

How much will I get paid to donate plasma?

Not all provinces allow for paid plasma donations and DB Plasma is one of the very few companies that compensate donors. Paying plasma donors has been proven to be the only way to ensure a secure supply of plasma, which is one of the reasons why we’ve been long-time proponents of this practice.

DB Plasma donors have the opportunity to earn up to $400/month for their contributions. We also have a referral program that gives donors the opportunity to earn an additional $25 per referral and we regularly hold giveaway events.

What is plasma used for?

You may be curious about what happens to plasma post-donation. This yellowish component of blood has many uses thanks to its incredible healing properties.

Donated source plasma is typically used to treat patients with rare diseases and bleeding disorders. The patients who rely on these therapies receive regular infusions or injections of plasma-derived products that allow them to lead healthy and more productive lives.

There you have it – all the things you may want to consider when deciding whether to become a plasma donor! We hope this will make your decision much easier. If you’ve come to the conclusion that you’d like to become a donor, we’d be happy to have you! Book an appointment at a DB Plasma centre near you to get started on your journey to becoming a plasma donor.

February 19, 2021

December 9^th, 2020 was a day we’d all been waiting for since the COVID-19 pandemic took hold of our lives. It was the day that Health Canada finally approved the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. Since then, Health Canada has also approved the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine and the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.

While the approval of these vaccines is very exciting, a lot of misconceptions have come about with this news. This includes rumours surrounding donor eligibility after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.

Here’s a look at how the coronavirus vaccine will actually affect plasma donation.

Misconceptions About the COVID-19 Vaccine and Plasma Donation

The COVID-19 pandemic has already had a negative impact on plasma donations, with some plasma collectors reporting significant declines in collections due to social distancing requirements and other restrictions. Given the fact that the manufacturing process for plasma-derived medicines is so complex and can take anywhere from 7-12 months, this decline is very concerning. Any decrease in plasma collections ultimately impacts patients’ ability to receive the therapies they rely on.

On top of the decline in donations, there have also been rumours circulating that claim that people who have received either the Pfizer, Moderna, or AstraZeneca vaccine will no longer be eligible to donate source plasma. This rumour is not true. It does, however, have the potential to further impact the production of life-saving plasma treatments.

How the COVID-19 Vaccine Will Affect Source Plasma Donations

Receiving the Pfizer, Moderna, or AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine will have no bearing on your eligibility status as a plasma donor. You will still be able to donate regular source plasma just as you usually would. Your donations will also still be used to create therapies for patients with rare and chronic conditions.

All in all, receiving the COVID-19 vaccine will, in fact, not have any impact on regular source plasma donations. With the reported declines in plasma collection, every person’s donations, whether they are vaccinated or not, matter more than ever before. Book your next plasma donation appointment today to help ensure a secure supply of source plasma for patients who need it.

January 26, 2021

Plasma is a clear, straw-coloured liquid component of blood that contains important proteins. The proteins found in plasma, including albumin and globulin, play an essential role in blood clotting and defending the body against infections. Donated plasma is often used to create life-saving therapies for patients with rare diseases whose bodies aren’t able to perform these vital functions on their own. As such, keeping your protein levels up as a plasma donor is very important.

If you’d like to learn more about the ways you can get your protein levels up for plasma donation, keep reading to find out!

Protein Levels and the Plasma Donation Process

Plasma donors must meet certain eligibility requirements and undergo screenings to ensure their plasma is safe and viable. Part of the screening process involves total protein (TP) measurements being taken.

The total protein measurement process is relatively simple. It involves a finger stick test that is used to collect a blood sample. A capillary tube containing the blood sample is then spun and TP is measured. The minimum acceptable TP level for plasma donation is 6.0 g/dl.

If your TP levels don’t reach that level, you won’t be eligible to donate plasma on the day of the test. However, there are things you can do to bring your protein levels up and resume your plasma donation sessions if you find yourself in this scenario.

3 Ways to Increase Your Protein Levels for Plasma Donation

1. Consume Animal Proteins

Eating animal proteins is a great way to boost the protein level in your blood. Red meat is one of the best sources of animal protein, but it is also high in saturated fat, which can ultimately affect your cardiovascular health. To get optimal protein levels in your diet while also keeping your health in check, opt for leaner cuts of red meat like sirloin steak and filet mignon. These red meats contain 23 grams and 22 grams of protein per 3 oz serving respectively.

Other meats that are high in protein include pork, poultry, and fish. Pork contains 23 grams of protein per 3 oz serving, chicken contains roughly 24 grams of protein per 3 oz serving, and salmon contains 17 grams of protein per 3 oz serving.

2. Consume Dairy and Eggs

Dairy and eggs are another excellent source of protein. There are 6 grams of protein in one large egg and, compared to other cheeses, low-fat ricotta and cottage cheese contain a substantial amount of protein without a high percentage of fat. One cup of low-fat ricotta has 20 grams of protein and one cup of large curd cottage cheese has 23 grams of protein.

3. Consume Plant-Based Protein

If you don’t eat animal products, there are still ways to increase your protein intake with just plant-based foods! Tofu, lentils, beans, nuts, seeds, and dark leafy greens like spinach and kale are all great sources of protein.

No matter what your dietary preferences are, there are plenty of ways to boost your protein levels so that they are adequate for plasma donation! Book your next appointment at a DB Plasma centre near you to help patients that rely on plasma-derived therapies and earn up to $4,680/year. 

January 21, 2021

There are a range of rare and chronic conditions that plasma, the largest component of human blood, is capable of treating. Guillain-Barre syndrome is one such condition. In this blog, we’ll be unpacking everything you need to know about Guillain-Barre syndrome and how blood plasma is used to manage this condition.

What is Guillain-Barre Syndrome?

Guillain-Barre syndrome is a rare disorder that causes your body’s immune system to attack healthy nerve cells. This leads to muscle weakness, loss of reflexes, and tingling or numbness in parts of your body. In severe cases of Guillain-Barre syndrome, these sensations can spread and eventually paralyze your whole body.

What are the Symptoms of Guillain-Barre Syndrome?

Guillain-Barre syndrome causes your immune system to attack your peripheral nervous system. Since the nerves in your peripheral nervous system transmit signals between your brain and your body, when these nerves become damaged your muscles are no longer able to respond to signals from your brain.

Early symptoms of Guillain-Barre Syndrome include tingling and muscle weakness starting in your toes, feet, and legs that spread upward to your arms. Other symptoms of this autoimmune disorder may include:

·  Difficulty walking

·  Difficulty with facial movements, including talking, chewing, or swallowing

·  Difficulty with bladder control

·  Difficulty breathing

·  Severe aches and pains

·  Rapid heart rate

·  Paralysis

What Causes Guillain-Barre Syndrome?

The exact cause of Guillain-Barre syndrome is unknown. Roughly two-thirds of people with the condition report developing it shortly after they’ve had a respiratory or digestive tract infection. Cases have also been reported following a Zika virus or COVID-19 infection.

An improper immune response to the prior illness is thought to lead to Guillain-Barre syndrome. Anyone can get this disorder, but it’s more common in older adults. A Guillain-Barre syndrome diagnosis is typically confirmed using spinal tap, electromyography, and/or nerve conduction tests.

How is Guillain-Barre Syndrome Treated?

If left untreated, the symptoms of Guillain-Barre syndrome can be fatal. Thankfully, plasmapheresis and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatments can both be used to manage immune attacks and support bodily functions.

During the plasmapheresis procedure, antibodies that are attacking your nerves are removed from your blood via an apheresis machine. The apheresis machine then separates these antibodies out and returns your blood to your body.

IVIG treatments are plasma-derived products that are manufactured from the blood plasma of healthy donors. This treatment can help block the antibodies that cause Guillain-Barre syndrome when administered in high doses.

The inflammatory issues caused by Guillain-Barre syndrome will usually resolve on their own, but with these innovative treatments, the symptoms and duration of this illness can be eased and reduced. If you’d like to help patients afflicted with Guillain-Barre syndrome, book your next plasma donation appointment today.

January 5, 2021

The new year is a great time to start a brand new habit. Whether you’re looking to give back to others or supplement your income in 2021, plasma donation is a fulfilling process that allows for the possibility of both of these things. 

Want to learn more about what plasma donation entails? In today’s blog, we’ll be uncovering the basics of plasma donation and how you can become a donor at DB Plasma.

What Is Plasma?

Plasma is a yellowish liquid component of blood. It makes up more than half, about 55%, of your blood’s overall content. The main role of plasma is to carry nutrients, hormones, and proteins around the body.

What Is Plasma Used For?

Blood plasma contains important antibodies, clotting factors, and proteins that can be manufactured into life-saving treatments. Bleeding disorders and rare diseases that affect the immune system can be treated using plasma-derived therapies. Plasma is also commonly used to treat animal bites, burns, and pediatric HIV.

How Does the Plasma Donation Process Work?

The plasma donation process entails registering, screening, donating, and relaxing. Plasma donors are thoroughly screened and undergo regular health checks to ensure they are in good health and able to donate. Once eligibility has been established, plasma donors are intravenously connected to high-tech apheresis machines and undergo plasmapheresis.

Plasmapheresis is a method used to remove plasma from the body and separate it from other blood components that are subsequently returned to the bloodstream. This process takes roughly 50 minutes to complete. After donors have completed their plasma donation, they are encouraged to relax and enjoy refreshments.

Benefits of Donating Plasma

There are many benefits to donating plasma. Plasma donation is a generous act that can ultimately help save lives. It is a great way to contribute to the creation of life-saving therapies and the discovery of innovative new treatments. As a plasma donor at DB Plasma, you also get the opportunity to earn up to $90/week for your donations!

How to Become a Plasma Donor At DB Plasma

If you’re interested in becoming a plasma donor, visit the eligibility page on our website to find out if you meet the requirements needed to become a donor. If you think you’d be a good candidate, don’t hesitate to book an appointment at a centre near you. We’re always happy to take on new plasma donors!

Plasma donation is an incredible act that can change the lives of others for the better. With the new year upon us, now’s a good a time as ever to get involved in a good cause and start giving back!