The Calgary Plasma Study: feasibility of implementing source plasma donation with alternative screening eligibility criteria for men who have sex with men

Canada does not collect enough plasma to meet the needs of Canadians. Sexually active men who have sex with men (MSM) cannot currently donate plasma. However, progress continues to be made to make plasma donation more inclusive, with research evidence-informed policies shifting from indefinite to 3-month deferral in less than a decade. As plasma is collected and processed in a way that ensures greater safety than whole blood donation, Canada is at the international forefront in conversations about moving to behaviour-based deferral using new screening questions that could allow some sexually active MSM to donate, such as those in a monogamous relationship or having 1 partner in the last 3 months. However, while policy changes would enable more MSM to donate, this in itself may not be sufficient to support successful implementation. It is important to understand which barriers and enablers would impact on donating plasma and to work with MSM and donation centre staff to co-develop a strategy to encourage donation that addresses their needs and concerns. We are currently investigating these factors in London; the present project aims to complement this research in Calgary, the site of Canada’s other dedicated large-volume plasma donation centre.

PRESSEAU, Justin

Ottawa Hospital Research Institute

MSM Plasma Program

Ontario

$399,875