The U.S. Department of Health is considering a change to the blood donation rules. Gay men are permanently banned from donating in America. Now some scientists and politicians believe the policies should change.
Anthony Ash is a gay rights advocate for the Courage Campaign. He says, "It is a stark reality is that I'm not allowed to help save a life."
Dean Eller is the CEO of Central California Blood Centers. He says they follow strict FDA regulations. Eller says, "The question is, have you ever had male male sex even once since 1977? If the answer is yes in that year. Then right now, you have a lifetime deferral. You can't give blood."
Eller says gay men were banned from donation in the 80's when fear was more widespread than knowledge. He says science has come a long way.
"It used to be it took months or maybe even years to detect viral load of a virus in blood. Today with new testing that can be taken to 11 days."
Every blood sample is tested for HIV and AIDS but according to the FDA the tests aren't 100% accurate. It's estimated one out of every 2 million people get HIV through a transfusion.
Peter LarBera is the President of the anti-gay group Americans For the Truth About Homosexuality. He says, "People on the other side are basically make this more about equality issue. Which is very political and I think when it comes to blood supply the FDA is right. Better safe than sorry."
Senator John Kerry disagrees. He says a law that was once medically justified is now simply outdated.
Anthony Ash says, "I believe if they test everyone for the same thing. I believe sexual orientation should have nothing to do with blood donation process."
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