In a recent press release CSL Behring announced that it is donating 2 million international units (IUs) of protein factor therapies to the World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH). These donations are a component of WFH’s Global Alliance for Progress (GAP). The GAP program, launched in 2003, was created to improve the diagnosis, treatment and management of bleeding disorders in people in the developing world.

CSL’s announcement was made on the eve of World Rare Disease Day (WRD), which was February 28, 2015. WRD is coordinated by the European Organization for Rare Diseases, plus several national alliances and international patient organizations. Since 2012, CSL Behring has donated close to 7.7 million IUs of its bleeding disorders therapies for the treatment of individuals with hemophilia or von Willebrand disease.

“We take great pride in the progress of the GAP Program and are grateful for the generous donations made by CSL Behring,” said WFH President Alain Weill. “We look forward to our continued partnership with CSL Behring as we strive to help fulfill our commitment to introduce clotting factor concentrates in developing countries where people who are living with a bleeding disorder may not be able to access appropriate treatment.”

“CSL Behring is committed to improving the well-being of people who are living with rare or serious diseases,” said Paul Perreault, CEO and Managing Director of CSL Limited. “The GAP Program has made excellent progress over the years and continues to align with our goal to make meaningful differences in the lives of people who are living with serious diseases, such as hemophilia or von Willebrand disease.”

Source: CSL Behring press release dated February 27, 2015