Plasma-derived product recipients' views on the acceptability of implementing a programme of plasma donation for fractionation from men who have sex with men.

Abstract

Over the past few years in Québec, Canada, exclusion criteria for blood donation and plasma donation for fractionation have been modified. Héma-Québec, the institution responsible for blood products, has made changes to allow more inclusive access to blood and plasma donation, in accordance with evolving scientific data concerning donation safety. The study, conducted before those changes were implemented, aimed to assess acceptability of recipients and parents of recipients of plasma-derived products for men who have sex with men (MSM) to become eligible to donate plasma for fractionation. Eight qualitative interviews (4 focus groups, 4 individual) were conducted with a total of 17 plasma product recipients and parents of children needing plasma-derived products. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Participants were rather favourable regarding acceptability of MSM as potential donors. Participants viewed this change as necessary and beneficial. They also felt they must rely on trust in Héma-Québec, conferred automatically or by default. However, some participants raised concerns about donation safety and reported feeling helpless regarding inclusion of MSM. The importance of being informed and that recipients' safety be prioritized first and foremost were also mentioned. Despite their nuanced attitudes, recipients showed high levels of acceptability of including MSM in plasma donation for fractionation. Actions can be taken to reduce concerns regarding the safety of products received.