We also have another role: Product Owner(PO) which is the most closest to the role played by a BA. But a PO is shouldered with responsiblity for entire owning business application and its related projects. Both the BA and PO roles work hand in glove in a project or even replace each other for a project depending on size,schedule,skills,etc…

I agree with your promotion that Business Analysis should be a distinct profession. But my understanding (open to correction) is for small size firms where resources availability is tight, BAs are asked to take more responsibilities like QA, or even System Architects for that matter.