AIDS, hepatitis and hemophilia

Abstract

self-sufficiency, and the American and European manufacturers who wanted their share of the French market. It also minimized the internal battle between the French Hemophilia Association, a few doctors who promoted unrestricted concentrate usage, whereas others, who were more prudent, supported on-demand treatment and the larger usage of cryoprecipitate. However, the large-scale use of cryoprecipitate was branded as ÔretrogradeÕ by the French Hemophilia Association, although, in retrospect, the Belgian example indisputably proved its merits. The French Hemophilia Association and its president's direct involvement and considerable impact in the decision-making process was specific to the French situation. Although they later denied it for obvious reasons, this pressure group was as well or better informed of the scientific and medical developments than many physicians and played a very significant role during this period.After the turmoil created by the AIDS crisis around the world, most legal aspects of this issue have been settled. It is now time for dispassionate reflection and for the relegation of this period to history. It is hoped that this appeal for moderation and guidance by facts rather than emotions will be heard by all the parties concerned.