1. Relaxation of tissue donation restrictions for gay and bisexual men urged by FDA
2. FDA recommends lifting decades-old tissue donation restrictions for gay and bisexual individuals.
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In recent years, there have been significant changes in the regulations surrounding organ and blood donations in the United States. However, restrictions on donated tissue, including corneas, still remain a point of contention. Specifically, advocates, lawmakers, and organisations focused on improving access to cornea donations are calling on the FDA to align guidelines for tissue donated by gay and bisexual men with those that apply to the general population.
Challenges in Cornea Donations
Sheryl J. Moore, a prominent advocate in this movement, has been vocal about the need to reduce the deferral period for cornea donations from gay and bisexual men. Moore’s advocacy began after her son’s death in 2013, when his corneas were rejected based on his sexual orientation. Together with Dr. Michael Puente Jr., Moore launched the “Legalize Gay Eyes” campaign to raise awareness and push for change.
Outdated Policies and Discrimination
The current FDA guidelines for cornea donations from gay and bisexual men require a celibacy period of five years before donation, which advocates argue is outdated and discriminatory. Despite advancements in testing technologies that can effectively screen for HIV and other infectious diseases, these stringent policies remain in place.
Advocating for Change
Advocates and lawmakers have been urging the FDA to reconsider its stance on cornea donations from gay and bisexual men. They argue that these restrictions perpetuate stigma and are not based on scientific evidence. By aligning cornea donation guidelines with those for other organs and blood donations, more lives could be saved through successful transplants.
Scientific Progress and Risk Assessment
Research has shown that the risk of HIV transmission through cornea transplants is minimal, thanks to stringent testing protocols. Nucleic acid tests used to screen donors are highly accurate and can detect the virus within a short window period. Experts in the field suggest that a three-month deferral period for cornea donations would be sufficient to mitigate any potential risks.
Call for Action
Despite mounting pressure from advocates and lawmakers, the FDA has yet to make significant changes to its guidelines for cornea donations from gay and bisexual men. Advocates like Moore and Dr. Puente continue to push for reform, highlighting the need for inclusive and evidence-based policies in organ and tissue donation.
Conclusion
As the debate around cornea donation guidelines intensifies, the need for a more equitable and science-based approach is evident. Advocates are determined to ensure that no individual is denied the opportunity to donate their corneas based on outdated and discriminatory policies. It is hoped that the FDA will take heed of these calls for change and make the necessary adjustments to facilitate more inclusive donation practices.
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FDA urged relax decades-old tissue donation restrictions gay bisexual men FDA urged relax tissue donation restrictions gay bisexual men.
