Obituary: Transfusion medicine pioneer Gunnar Myllylä

Professor Gunnar Myllylä, a distinguished figure in transfusion medicine, passed away on May 1, 2026, in Karkkila at the age of 91. Born in Pyhäntä in 1935, Myllylä was the eldest son of a farming family. He pursued his education in Oulu and later graduated as a physician from the University of Helsinki in 1962, earning his doctorate in 1973 and becoming a docent in hematology in 1974. He was awarded the title of professor in 1994.

Myllylä's career took a decisive turn during his studies when he accepted a position as an assistant physician in a coagulation laboratory. This led to a remarkable 36-year tenure at the Finnish Red Cross Blood Service, where he served in roles such as research and development director and chief physician for clinical services. His work was characterized by a dual focus on clinical practice and research, aiming to enhance the quality, safety, and appropriate use of blood products.

As a leading expert in hemophilia research in Finland, Myllylä spearheaded the Blood Service's initiative to produce clotting factor concentrates. His development of cryoprecipitate, specifically a freeze-dried cryo-AHG, was groundbreaking, significantly improving the life expectancy for individuals with severe hemophilia A by as much as twenty years. He also played a crucial role in the transition from whole blood transfusions to component therapy, developing separation methods and investigating the viability of different blood cells.

Myllylä was a founding member of the Finnish Society of Hematology (1965) and the Finnish Hemophilia Society (1969). He supervised fourteen doctoral dissertations and was recognized with the Maud Kuistila Foundation's award in 1996 for his inspiring and effective guidance of research. His international reputation led to involvement in expert groups and development projects worldwide, particularly in China and Zimbabwe. Beyond his professional achievements, Myllylä cherished family, literature, history, and design, finding solace in rural life and hands-on activities at his cottage.