Core Concepts
Cornea donation guidelines for gay and bisexual men may be revised to reduce exclusionary periods.
Abstract
Eye health advocates are pushing for changes in cornea donation guidelines for gay and bisexual men, similar to the recent reforms in blood donation rules. Dr. David Glasser, representing various organizations, aims to make more gay men eligible as cornea donors. The current guidelines are criticized for being discriminatory and outdated, depriving loved ones of comfort. Despite advances in testing and research showing minimal HIV transmission risk, the FDA remains cautious due to perceived risks and the existing supply of corneal tissue.
- Advocates seek to reduce the 5-year exclusion period for gay and bisexual men as cornea donors.
- Current guidelines are criticized for being discriminatory and outdated.
- The FDA remains cautious about changing donor screening policies.
- Research shows minimal risk of HIV transmission through corneal transplants.
- Demand for corneas is increasing due to aging populations and shortages in other countries.
Stats
"We think that perhaps it will happen this year," David Glasser, MD, a cornea specialist with the American Academy of Ophthalmology, said of new guidance on the eligibility of cornea donors.
The FDA lowered the deferral period for gay and bisexual men for giving blood from 1 year to 90 days in 2020 before lifting the abstinence requirement this year.
Advocates point out that the ban deprives the loved ones of gay and bisexual men of comfort from knowing that something positive came from their deaths.
Quotes
"We think that perhaps it will happen this year," - David Glasser, MD
"The risk of getting hit by a bus on your way to the post-op visit is greater than the risk of getting HIV from a corneal transplant." - David Glasser, MD