Canada lifts restrictions on gay men donating blood

Canadian health officials have lifted restrictions on gay and bisexual men donating blood following years of LGBTQ and advocacy groups accusing the federal health department of discrimination. Canada Health announced Thursday that it has eliminated the current ban on men from donating blood if they have had sex with another man within the past three months. Instead, Canadian Blood Services, a non-profit charitable organization that provides blood to Canadian healthcare systems, will screen all donors, regardless of gender of sexuality, for high-risk sexual behaviors via a donor-screening questionnaire. “Today’s authorization is a significant milestone toward a more inclusive blood donation system nationwide, and builds on progress in scientific evidence made in recent years,” it said in a statement. The health body made the change at the request of Canadian Blood Services, which has been advocating for the change for more than a decade. According to the charitable organization, male donors will no longer be asked if they’ve had sex with another man and instead all will be screened based on their sexual history.

Regions: ,

Share this:

Latest Global News

Added on: 11/22/2024
11/21/2024
The Vatican has blocked discussions over women’s rights at the UN climate summit following a row over gay and transgender issues, sources have told …
Added on: 11/22/2024
11/21/2024
In the wake of the U.S. election, crisis lines are surging – an undeniable indication that the most marginalized groups among us are reeling in uncertainty. In …
Added on: 11/22/2024
11/21/2024
CAPE TOWN – The first openly LGBTQ+ candidates to run for office in Namibia say young voters want change even as hate crimes rise …

Explore LGBTQ+ Issues

Other News from ,

Added on: 11/22/2024
In the wake of the U.S. election, crisis lines are surging – an undeniable indication that the most marginalized groups among us are reeling in uncertainty. In …
Added on: 11/20/2024
Los Angeles officials on Tuesday moved to cement the city and its schools as sanctuaries for immigrants and LGBTQ youth as the city positions …
Added on: 11/19/2024
Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) unveiled a resolution on Monday that would ban transgender women from using female bathrooms inside the Capitol — drawing immediate …