Knowledge mobilization around Sexually Transmitted and Blood-Borne Infections (STBBIs) among Black populations in Canada
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.