Grant: Operating Grant - HIV/AIDS CBR Program - General

Very little is known about HIV and sexually transmitted and blood borne infections (STBBI) testing for African and Caribbean migrant communities in Manitoba, particularly regarding HIV/STBBI dried blood spot (DBS) testing. We propose a mixed-methods community-based research study and a peer-led DBS testing program to respond to current and pressing knowledge gaps concerning HIV/STBBI testing and linkages to care for African and Caribbean migrant communities in Manitoba. We will examine the barriers and facilitators to HIV/STBBI testing faced by African and Caribbean migrant communities in Manitoba. We will also evaluate the acceptability of DBS self-sampling among African and Caribbean migrant communities in Manitoba and identify effective ways to support their linkage to care, treatment, and prevention. To accomplish these objectives, we will use a province-wide survey to gather data on socio-demographics, HIV/STBBI testing, HIV/STBBI risks and resiliencies, and use of/access to HIV/STBBI services among a sample of African and Caribbean migrant community members (n=350) in Manitoba. Next, we will implement and measure the impact of an innovative community-based peer-led DBS testing program (n=60) housed at the Sexuality Education Resource Centre, with the purpose of scaling-up HIV/STBBI DBS testing in Manitoba among members of African newcomer communities and provide an integrated approach to knowledge translation and exchange on this project. We will also build capacity among emerging scholars and community leaders in this area. By understanding the knowledge gaps in HIV/STBBI testing and linkages to care for African and Caribbean migrants across Manitoba we will significantly contribute to HIV/STBBI research and policy response. This study will inform models of HIV/STBBI service delivery, and facilitate the creation of new, culturally relevant HIV/STBBI testing, prevention and care for African and Caribbean migrant communities in Manitoba.