Dr. Kevin Pottie will describe the key points of the Human immunodeficiency virus review of the Canadian Collaboration for Immigrant and Refugee Health Evidence-based clinical guidelines
Key points
Immigrants and refugees from countries where HIV is prevalent (> 1%) are vulnerable owing to high HIV prevalence in their home country and high levels of HIV-related stigma.
Stigma and discrimination related to HIV are associated with avoidance of or delays in seeking HIV testing, delays in disclosure of seropositive status to partners and practitioners, and postponement or rejection of treatment.
The effects of HIV-related stigma are magnified among socially vulnerable minority groups. Providing information on HIV testing options and effectiveness of treatment can improve likelihood of testing and acceptance of care.