Grant: Doctoral: Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which leads to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), is a major global health epidemic with no known cure. Men who have sex with men (MSM) and Aboriginal people were identified as key populations at increased risk of HIV infection in Canada's Federal Initiative to Address HIV/AIDS. This research will improve the understanding HIV infection and testing, which is needed to support evidence-based prevention programs. The objective of this research is to determine the association between HIV status and Aboriginal self-identification, MSM behaviour, and sexual scripts within and between Canada and New Zealand using quantitative and qualitative methods. The research hypothesizes that Aboriginal MSM compared to non-indigenous MSM and indigenous non-MSM are at increased risk for HIV, have lower HIV testing patterns and engage in more risk sexual script. This research will use both qualitative and quantitative methods and will be conducted through community-based partnership with indigenous groups. As internationally recommended for studying HIV in minority populations, a behavioural and attitudinal survey will be paired with a participant's biological sample, which will be tested for HIV. Statistical analyses will determine associations between HIV status and factors including sexual behavior, drug use and HIV testing. Participants will also be invited to participate in a confidential interview or focus group, which will be used to determine the sexual scripts for indigenous MSM in each country, which can be used to help understand and predict sexual beheaviour. Understanding the HIV epidemic in these minority groups at increased risk for HIV infection will provide the necessary foundation for community groups and health care providers to effectively develop and deliver culturally-relevant campaigns, programs and services. Ultimately, this research will contribute to battling the HIV epidemic in Canada and in New Zealand.