Attitudes, behaviours, and acceptability related to current and future blood donation policy: A qualitative study of gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men in Vancouver, Toronto, and Montréal

Through in-depth qualitative interviews with gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM) in Vancouver, Toronto, and Montréal, we will assess the attitudes and behaviours of gbMSM related to current and future blood donation policy, collecting perspectives on what gbMSM consider to be a suitable blood donor profile and acceptable deferral processes. We will conduct interviews with a diverse sample of gbMSM(n=45) and analyze transcripts using grounded theory. Study participants will be recruited from Engage, a national biomedical and sociobehavioural surveillance study on gbMSM. To inform supplementary quantitative investigations and build effective donor screening questions, we will: (1) examine gbMSM’s experiences with, and opinions of, blood donation, including their understanding and acceptance (i.e. compliance) of current and modified blood donation policy; (2) determine what gbMSM consider suitable verses unsuitable profiles for blood donation and procedures for screening and deferring that maintain the safety of the blood supply; (3) assess gbMSM’s interest in (i) donating blood under current or modified screening processes and (ii) participating in a plasma donor program; (4) examine gbMSM’s self-perception of being at risk for HIV in relationship to their sexual practices as well as to their perceived eligibility to donate blood

GRACE, Daniel

University of Toronto

MSM Research Grant Program

Ontario

$60,000