This Proposed FDA Change Could Ease National Blood Shortages

Throughout the pandemic, the U.S. blood supply has reached dire lows. A Verywell analysis found that nearly half a million more people may have donated blood in 2019, if gay and bisexual men had been allowed to donate without restrictions.

Headlines for a healthier you Claire Bugos, Staff Writer How Lifting Restrictions on Gay and Bisexual Men Could Bolster Blood Supply Since the 1980s, gay and bisexual men have been banned or restricted from donating blood, due to unscientific fears of tainting the blood supply with HIV. The FDA is now proposing that all potential donors receive the same risk assessment questionnaire, regardless of sexual preference or gender identity. Asking about one's travel and sexual history, experts argue, can identify risky potential donors without advancing stigmas. Know More Throughout the pandemic, the U.S. blood supply has reached dire lows. A Verywell analysis found that nearly half a million more people may have donated blood in 2019, if gay and bisexual men had been allowed to donate without restrictions. Feel Better Blood banks always test donations for signs of HIV and other diseases. While blood tests have improved dramatically in recent decades, they're not perfect. Weeding out potential high-risk donors is an additional safety measure. READ MORE What Else Should You Know Is the Green Mediterranean Diet Healthier? Those seeking a healthful eating pattern and lifestyle often look to the Mediterranean diet. New research finds that adding a couple superfoods to the mix—Mankai duckweed, green tea, and walnuts—can elevate the nutritional benefits of this plant-forward eating pattern. READ NOW What Is 'Ozempic Face'? The type 2 diabetes medication, Ozempic, has quickly gained popularity as a weight loss drug. Some people have noticed sagging skin and stretch marks that come as a side effect of rapidly losing body fat from this drug. Exercise, adequate protein and water intake, and slowing the speed of weight loss can help diminish these cosmetic effects. READ NOW In Other News Why the Future of Periods Could Be None at All. Inverse Someday, You Might Be Able to Eat Your Way Out of A Cold. The Atlantic More From Verywell Does the Mediterranean Diet Impact Brain Health and Memory? READ MORE Save Up to $700 on Luxury Mattresses With These Presidents' Day Sale READ MORE Blood Types and Compatibility for Donations READ MORE Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission. Unsubscribe This email was sent to naranjas91.health1@blogger.com A DOTDASH MEREDITH BRAND 225 Liberty St, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10281 ©2023. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy  |  Terms of Service