Preventing Transfusion-Transmitted HIV Infection in Latin America and the Caribbean: Issues Associated With Blood Donor Interviews and Sex Between Men

Abstract

Blood-borne transmission is the most efficient route for acquiring HIV infection, particularly through transfusion. Availability of noninfectious blood units for hemotherapy is a necessary condition for efficient functioning of health services. They have the obligation to ensure that the blood supply is safe, which includes interviewing potential donors to ascertain whether they might be at risk of being HIV infected. The interview procedures demand that blood services staff inquire potential blood donors about sexual practices associated to HIV transmission. Assumptions and misconceptions may unnecessary exclude adequate donors. Review of published and unpublished country reports in Latin America regarding blood safety and deferral criteria related to same sexual behavior among males. An analysis of criteria for deferral of potential blood donors shows inconsistencies that may impact the necessary safe blood supply. The blood donor deferral criteria should be revised according to relevant epidemiological evidence and social legitimacy. Personnel in blood banks and hemotherapy services should be educated to conduct appropriate interviews for accepting or deferring potential donors. Potential donors and the public should be knowledgeable for them to understand the reasons why some individuals may be deferred. Health authorities should work to reduce the stigma associated with HIV, prioritize building strong and meaningful partnerships with civil society, and engage diverse sectors in the national AIDS response.