Alexander Betts Jr. : FDA Urged to Relax Tissue Donation Rules for LGBTQ+ Men

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Tissue donation restrictions LGBTQ+
2. FDA policy change tissue donation LGBTQ+

The federal government made changes in 2020 and 2023 regarding organ and blood donations, easing restrictions on men who have had sex with other men. However, restrictions on donated tissue, including corneas, remain in place. Advocates are pushing for the FDA to align guidelines for tissue donated by gay and bisexual men with those for the rest of the population. The FDA’s outdated policies, initially aimed at preventing HIV transmission, are now seen as unnecessary and discriminatory. Efforts to update the guidelines have been ongoing for years, with calls for individualized risk assessments rather than blanket restrictions. Rep. Joe Neguse and other lawmakers have criticized the FDA for perpetuating stigma and bias. The FDA’s reluctance to act on these changes has sparked frustration among advocates and affected individuals.

Changes to Organ and Tissue Donation Guidelines in the UK

In recent years, the UK government has made significant changes to the regulations surrounding organ and tissue donation. In 2020 and 2023, amendments were introduced to allow more individuals to safely donate their organs and blood, including men who have had sexual relations with other men. Despite these changes, restrictions on donated tissue, such as corneas, remain in place.

Advocates Push for Equality in Tissue Donation Guidelines

Advocates, lawmakers, and various organizations have been lobbying for a reduction in the deferral period for tissue donation by gay and bisexual men. They argue that the current five-year deferral period is outdated and discriminatory. Instead, they propose aligning the guidelines for tissue donation with those for other organ donations, allowing individuals to donate as long as they have not engaged in high-risk behavior in the months leading up to their death.

Impact of Current Policies on Donors and Recipients

Sheryl J. Moore, a vocal advocate for changing tissue donation guidelines, shares her personal experience of losing her son, Alexander “AJ” Betts Jr., in 2013. Despite successfully donating his internal organs to seven individuals, his eyes were rejected due to his sexual orientation. Moore, along with Dr. Michael Puente Jr., launched a campaign called “Legalize Gay Eyes” to raise awareness and push for policy changes.

Scientific Progress and Need for Updated Guidelines

Dr. Puente highlights that advancements in HIV testing have made the current restrictions on tissue donation unnecessary. He emphasizes the need for guidelines based on individualized risk assessments rather than blanket bans on specific groups. The outdated policies, originally implemented to prevent HIV transmission, no longer align with current scientific knowledge.

Calls for FDA Action and Legislative Support

Despite ongoing advocacy efforts, the FDA has yet to act on proposed changes to tissue donation guidelines. Lawmakers, including Rep. Joe Neguse, have condemned the existing policies as perpetuating stigma and discrimination against gay men. They urge the FDA to prioritize scientific evidence and equality in organ and tissue donation regulations.

Risks and Testing Protocols for Donors

All donors, regardless of sexual orientation, undergo rigorous testing for HIV and hepatitis before their organs or tissues are accepted for donation. With advancements in nucleic acid testing, the likelihood of missing infections during the donation process is minimal. Experts suggest that a three-month deferral period is sufficient to cover the window period for detecting viruses in donors.

Personal Stories and the Push for Change

Moore’s heartbreaking experience with her son’s donation rejection underscores the need for inclusive and updated guidelines in tissue donation. The emotional toll of navigating outdated policies adds to the grief of losing a loved one. Advocates continue to push for reform to ensure that all individuals have equal opportunities to save lives through organ and tissue donation.