UK Bought Infected US Blood Products because it was “Cheaper”

Today, The Guardian reports on the disturbing story of infected blood products in the UK's National Health Service (NHS), bringing to light a grim narrative of governmental and corporate negligence. This article, made possible through the collaborative efforts of Factor 8 and The Guardian, focuses on an internal memo from the pharma company Immuno AG: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2024/apr/14/contaminated-blood-inquiry-uk-cheaper-minutes

The article focuses on the British government's decision to source cheaper, higher-risk blood products from the United States despite known risks. 

These products, primarily used for patients with the bleeding disorder haemophilia, were often derived from high-risk groups, including drug users and prisoners. This sourcing strategy led to the UK's most devastating medical scandal, with an estimated 2,900 deaths from conditions such as HIV and hepatitis.

Minutes from a 1976 company meeting chillingly noted a preference for cheaper, riskier blood products due to cost considerations—highlighting a blatant disregard for patient safety in favour of economic benefits.

The published findings have reignited discussions on compensation and accountability. Despite warm words from the government and interim compensation to surviving victims and bereaved partners, most bereaved families remain without any redress. The upcoming final report of the Infected Blood Inquiry initiated in 2017, is highly anticipated by victims and families, who are eager for a full acknowledgement of the mishandling and the establishment of a comprehensive compensation system.

As the inquiry's final report, this article serves as a crucial reminder of the dire consequences of prioritising economic gains over human lives. It also highlights the need for rigorous safety standards and transparency in healthcare practices, ensuring that such a scandal is never repeated.