Thesis Format
Alternative Format
Degree
Master of Science
Program
Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
Supervisor
Dr. Obidimma Ezezika
2nd Supervisor
Dr. Dianne Bryant
Abstract
Despite preventative efforts to minimize rates of sexually transmitted and bloodborne infections (STBBIs), Canada continues to have an alarming increase in these rates, where Black populations account for the highest rates of STBBIs in Canada. The overall objective of this research study was to understand the factors that contribute to the increase of STBBI rates by focusing on the barriers and facilitators around preventative measures in the Black populations of Canada. More specifically, guided by preliminary findings that revealed there is a gap in knowledge and awareness around STBBIs among Black populations in Canada, this study seeks to examine the barriers and facilitators to knowledge and awareness around STBBIs in this population. This work is comprised of two integrated manuscripts, that of a systematic review examining the barriers and facilitators to three key areas of knowledge around STBBIs: awareness, testing, and prevention, followed by a qualitative study that fills a gap in the literature by further examining the barriers and facilitators to knowledge and implementing STBBI related education and awareness programs for Black populations in Ontario.
Summary for Lay Audience
Despite efforts to reduce sexually transmitted and bloodborne infections (STBBIs), rates have increased in Canada, mainly among Black populations, who make up the highest number of these infections. This calls for action to understand why Black populations make up the majority of sexually transmitted and bloodborne infection (STBBI) rates in Canada. These include sexually transmitted infections such as HIV, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. The literature shows there is a lack of knowledge and awareness about STBBIs among Black populations. This study takes two approaches to understand challenges and enablers around preventive measures for STBBIs in Black communities in Canada: first, a systematic review to examine factors influencing STBBI awareness, knowledge about diagnostic testing, and knowledge around prevention of STBBIs, among Black populations in Canada. Second, a qualitative study on the barriers and facilitators to knowledge and the implementation of STBBI-related education programs in Black communities across Ontario. Overall, this research sheds light on why STBBI rates continue to increase in Black populations despite national prevention efforts and provides insights that can improve STBBI-related education and awareness initiatives for Black populations in Canada.
Recommended Citation
Girmay, Bethelehem, "Knowledge mobilization around Sexually Transmitted and Blood-Borne Infections (STBBIs) among Black populations in Canada" (2024). Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository. 10354.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/etd/10354
Included in
Community Health and Preventive Medicine Commons, Public Health Education and Promotion Commons