Monitoring Trends in the Prevalence of HIV Associated Behavioural, Socio-Demographic and Systemic Factors, and Health Care Utilization among First and Second generation African and Caribbean People Who Reside in Toronto and Ottawa-The A/C Study

Led by the University of Ottawa and supported by the Health Protection Service Area at OPH, this research aimed to address the gaps in knowledge regarding the prevalence of HIV, health care access and utilization and systemic factors that may be implicated in HIV acquisition among African, Caribbean, and Black populations in Toronto and Ottawa. This was a community-based cross-sectional study that involved first- and second-generation ACB adults aged 15-64 years. The project was based on the principles of community-led research with special emphasis on strong stakeholder engagement and integrated knowledge translation. The A/C study team was responsible for maintaining coordination between the AIDS service organizations, ACB Community and institutional stakeholders to ensure co-design and implementation for capacity building and knowledge sharing in the community. The project included 1380 participants regardless of their sexual orientation and immigration status and provided information on their experience of social discrimination and disparities in HIV diagnosis and health status.