The FDA has finalized revised recommendations for assessing blood donor eligibility, ensuring uniformity regardless of sexual orientation, sex, or gender. Donors reporting new sexual partners, multiple partners, or engaging in anal sex within three months will be deferred, as will those on HIV medications. The FDA emphasizes collaboration with the blood collection industry and will monitor the blood supply’s safety. The American Hospital Association urges public messaging to raise awareness and understanding of the new policy and the importance of blood donation.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently announced the finalization of revised recommendations for evaluating blood donor eligibility. These updated guidelines aim to establish a uniform set of risk-based questions applicable to all potential donors, regardless of their sexual orientation, sex, or gender. The primary objective of these recommendations is to minimize the chances of accepting blood donations from individuals with new or recent HIV infections.
According to the FDA, the revised recommendations include deferring treatment for individuals who have had a new sexual partner, engaged in anal sex, or had multiple sexual partners within the past three months. Additionally, prospective donors who are taking medications for the treatment or prevention of HIV infection will also be deferred. By implementing these measures, the FDA aims to enhance the safety and reliability of the nation’s blood supply.
Dr. Peter Marks, the director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, emphasized the agency’s commitment to collaborating closely with the blood collection industry to ensure the smooth implementation of the new guidelines. Furthermore, the FDA will remain vigilant in monitoring the safety of the blood supply once this individual risk-based approach is put into effect.
Recognizing the significance of effective communication and public outreach, the American Hospital Association (AHA) urged the FDA to finalize the proposed recommendations promptly. The AHA further suggested the development of public messaging campaigns targeting healthcare providers and LGBTQ+ communities. These campaigns would serve to inform and educate individuals about the new policies and emphasize the critical role of blood donation in saving lives.
