Men who have sex with men and ethical analysis of blood donors screening in Brazil

Abstract

The scope of this study is the ethical analysis of Resolution no 153⁄2004 of Brazil’s National Health Surveillance Agency, concerning human rights involving the deferral for men who have sex with other men (MSM) in blood donation during oneyear period. The Mann & Gostin`s model that utilizes human rights as parameter for evaluating health public policies was used for ethical analysis. The study showed that
the national blood policy purpose is clear and accurate related to transfusional safety, as well as there are effectiveness evidences of laboratorial and epidemiological screening measures. Still, it was found that there isn`t strict restriction of MSM’s human rights. Considering that the current national blood policy of MSM temporary exclusion is
consistent with human rights norms and principles, this study concluded that mentioned resolution should remain unchanged.