In late April 2022, Canadian Blood Services’ research-informed request to remove eligibility criteria specific to men who have sex with men and instead use sexual behaviour-based screening for all donors was approved by Health Canada. Read on to learn about two published studies from Canadian Blood Services that contributed to the body of evidence supporting this change.

Consider submitting a nomination for this prestigious award that recognizes individuals whose landmark contributions are recognized as both extraordinary and world class in the field of transfusion or transplantation medicine, stem cell or cord blood research in Canada and/or abroad. You have until May 16, 2022 to get your nominations in!

Read the entry that was awarded first place in this year’s “Science behind the scenes” Lay Science Writing Competition! Congratulations to the winner, graduate student Alexandra Witt. She identified high school students as her target audience and wrote an engaging piece that sheds light on the questions scientists ask when developing a new drug.

Dr. Cyrus Eduljee, associate director of portfolio management at Canadian Blood Services, explains how his group’s work supports the organization in bringing new products to the shelves and the importance of ensuring the organization is well prepared to withstand future shocks.

A study conducted last year by Canadian Blood Services’ social scientist, Dr. Kelly Holloway, shows challenges and opportunities for on-campus student advocates as they engage with their peers to encourage blood and plasma donation, all while navigating the COVID-19 pandemic.

As we begin a new year, look back with us at the top five blogs of 2021. Unsurprisingly, pandemic-related information gained the most attention.

This year’s event was held in a hybrid format providing attendees with the best of both worlds: a chance for face-to-face discussions for those who could attend in Vancouver, B.C., and the flexibility of a virtual event for participants and attendees across Canada and beyond.

During November’s Honouring Canada’s Lifeline award ceremony, three distinguished Canadian researchers were recognized with Lifetime Achievement Awards. Each a world-leading expert with numerous outstanding achievements during their distinguished careers, Dr. Gilles Delage, Dr. Heather Hume and Dr. Mel Krajden are deserving awardees.

We’re excited to launch a brand-new look for our professional education website, Canadian Blood Services’ resource hub for health-care professionals.

The latest Centre for Innovation annual progress report is now available on blood.ca. It describes the highlights of Canadian Blood Services’ research and education network during the 2020-2021 fiscal year.