Discursive History of Screening Criteria for Blood Donation Affecting Gay, Bi, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men in Canada: 1983–2013

Abstract

Background: In September 2022, Canadian Blood Services (CBS) implemented a sexual behaviour–based screening (SBBS) approach for all donors, putting an end to Canada’s “gay blood ban.” Analysis: To better understand the discursive history leading up to this change, this article analyzes articles in major newspapers and 2SLGBTQIA+ periodicals in Canada from 1983 to 2013 related to the ban. Conclusions and implications: The move to SBBS came about due not only to advancements in epidemiological knowledge and testing technologies, but also to significant shifts in how the issues were framed in public discourse.