The Role of Economic Inequality

America’s rising plasma trade is a symptom of broader economic inequality. The people lining up to donate plasma aren’t just doing it out of generosity—they often need the money for basics like rent or groceries. This highlights an uncomfortable reality: the working poor are increasingly relying on selling parts of their body to make ends meet. The practice exposes the gaps in our economy and healthcare system, as millions live paycheck to paycheck and need alternative ways to scrape by.