Grant: Catalyst Grant: HIV/AIDS CBR Program - General Stream

BACKGROUND: Long-acting (LA) HIV treatments may improve HIV care and prevention and also reduce treatment impacts among people living with HIV (PLWHIV). More research on Two-Spirit, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer men and non-binary (2S/GBTQ) community preferences is needed to prepare for wider availability of LA HIV prevention options in Canada. AIMS: We will assess diverse 2S/GBTQ PLWHIVs' preferences and priorities for LA HIV treatment options in Canada to minimize access barriers and ensure these options meet the needs of community members. We will also identify which groups of 2S/GBTQ PLWHIV would most benefit from Cabenuva and other LA-HIV treatments in Canada. METHODS: We will start by conducting a survey with 2S/GBTQ PLWHIV (n=400) across Canada about their preferences and priorities for LA HIV treatments through the Sex Now survey. Next, we will conduct interviews (n=20) with 2S/GBTQ PLWHIV in British Columbia about their preferences for LA HIV treatment and perspectives on current oral HIV treatment. Finally, we will develop two toolkits for health systems stakeholders and PLWHIV to inform implementation and improve access. KNOWLEDGE TRANSLATION: We will take a multi-pronged, community-based approach to knowledge translation to reach multiple audiences. We will develop webinars, a blog post, and a policy statement. Additionally, we will share findings at two conferences and in at least one open access, peer-reviewed journal article. IMPACT: This project will strengthen partnerships between researchers and community organizations, build research skills among PLWHIV, and help prepare 2S/GBTQ community members, healthcare providers, and policymakers for LA HIV treatments. We will show how access and adherence to HIV treatment can be improved, including among 2S/GBTQ people who experience barriers to access, which will help reduce new diagnoses. Additionally, we will help improve the quality of life and long-term success of PLWHIV in Canada.