After years of protests, FDA makes it easier for gay and bisexual men to donate blood
PBS NewsHourAUG 2022
This common-sense proposal is a a boon for gay rights as it will end discriminatory and unnecessary blood donation restrictions. With today's technology able to test blood for infectious diseases, it's high time the US joins other nations — such as Canada and the UK — in making the process fairer for everyone, thereby encouraging more blood donations.
It's short-sighted to mistake precaution for discrimination. The reality is that HIV infection disproportionately affects MSM, and without the tools of today, the FDA rightly chose to execute due diligence. As medicine and technology progress, it's natural — and encouraged — that regulations such as these follow suit; however, the FDA must be mindful to keep prioritizing the safety of the blood system.