The growing gap between the demand and the supply for safe, compatible blood is a significant public health issue worldwide. In addition, current events in the United States and abroad underscore the need for constant medical readiness to address life-threatening situations on short notice. Large-scale disasters, military conflicts and regional or seasonal blood shortages can create an urgent need for donated blood.

In particular, compatible red blood cells may be required to stabilize patients in need of immediate oxygen-carrying support and to allow corrective surgical procedures to occur without delay. However, donated blood is not always immediately available or may be in short supply, and significant quantities of red blood cells cannot be stockpiled locally because they have a short shelf life and require refrigerated storage. While Americans have demonstrated that they will donate blood during a national disaster, it takes 24 to 48 hours or longer to collect, process and transport donated blood to the scene.

In these situations, Hemopure may provide a potentially life-saving alternative due to its unique product attributes that overcome many of the logistical issues associated with red blood cells. With its room temperature stability, long shelf life, universal compatibility, purity and ability to deliver oxygen immediately, Hemopure can be stockpiled, positioned abroad and carried or stored in remote locations for immediate use when red blood cells are not readily available.