World AIDS Day: Empowering Women and Gender-Diverse Communities through Prevention and Care
On this World AIDS Day (December 1), the Interior Women's Centre Society (IWCS) stands in solidarity with women, girls, non-binary individuals, and all communities impacted by HIV/AIDS. As we reflect on the progress made and the work still needed, we aim to amplify awareness, foster support, and advocate for equitable care for all.
Understanding the Impact of HIV on Women and Gender-Diverse Individuals
According to the Public Health Agency, approximately 24.6% of the 62,790 people living with HIV in Canada at the end of 2020 were women. Although this data is several years old, it highlights the disproportionate challenges women face during the HIV epidemic.
HIV in British Columbia: Women’s Realities
Data from the BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS underscores the unique barriers faced by women living with HIV in BC:
Women represent 18% of the population living with HIV in BC, with a median age of 41 years.
Testing rates have improved, with women now being tested at a slightly higher rate than men.
Despite advances, gaps in care persist, including disparities in adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and viral suppression compared to men.
Challenges and Vulnerabilities
Women living with HIV encounter systemic and societal challenges, such as:
Barriers to care: Substance use, competing priorities, and stigma can hinder access to consistent and quality healthcare.
Gender-based violence and inequities: Poverty, violence, and discrimination exacerbate women’s vulnerability to HIV and their ability to seek and sustain care.
Late diagnoses: Historically, women are more likely to be diagnosed at advanced stages of the disease, limiting timely treatment opportunities.
Prevention is Key: Strategies for Reducing Risks
1. Harm Reduction Supplies
Harm reduction is vital for mitigating risks, particularly for women who use substances or face barriers to healthcare. Key tools include:
Syringe Exchange Programs (SEPs): Providing clean syringes reduces the risk of HIV and hepatitis transmission.
Naloxone Kits: Life-saving in preventing opioid overdoses, naloxone should be widely accessible.
Supervised Consumption Sites: Safe spaces for substance use under medical supervision significantly reduce harm.
2. Contraceptives for Protection
Contraceptives prevent both unintended pregnancies and the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Condoms: The most effective barrier method for reducing HIV/STI transmission.
Internal Condoms: Offer women and gender-diverse individuals more control during sexual activity.
Dual Protection Education: Promoting condoms alongside hormonal contraceptives ensures comprehensive reproductive health.
3. Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)
PrEP is a groundbreaking prevention tool for individuals at risk of HIV. When taken consistently, it reduces the risk of contracting HIV through sexual contact by up to 99%.
Accessibility in BC: PrEP is free for high-risk individuals, ensuring affordability is not a barrier.
Community Awareness: Efforts to educate vulnerable groups about PrEP are crucial for increasing its uptake.
4. Regular Testing and Early Detection
HIV testing is critical for prevention and care. Early detection ensures timely access to treatment, preventing disease progression and reducing transmission rates.
Routine Testing Campaigns: Encourage women and gender-diverse individuals to include HIV testing in regular healthcare routines.
Stigma-Free Environments: Accessible, nonjudgmental testing sites foster trust and encourage participation.
5. Addressing Systemic Barriers
Long-term prevention requires addressing the social determinants of health that exacerbate vulnerability to HIV.
Combatting Gender-Based Violence: Advocating for survivors reduces their risk of HIV infection.
Economic Support: Stable housing and financial resources improve adherence to prevention and treatment.
Mental Health Care: Access to counseling helps individuals navigate trauma and improve overall well-being.
Progress and Possibilities
Despite these hurdles, we have reasons to be hopeful:
Nearly 90% of women diagnosed with HIV in BC are now linked to care, and over 70% are receiving treatment.
The closing gender gap in HIV testing reflects improved health system responsiveness to women’s needs.
The Role of Empowerment and Community Support
Empowering women, girls, and gender-diverse individuals is critical to reducing vulnerability, increasing access to care, and improving health outcomes. This includes addressing stigma, ensuring access to comprehensive health services, and creating supportive spaces where individuals can thrive.
At IWCS, we are committed to:
Providing resources and referrals: If you need support navigating the BC Interior medical system, we are here to help.
Advocating for equitable healthcare: We believe all individuals, regardless of gender or background, deserve dignified, high-quality care.
Raising awareness: By educating our community, we strive to break down stigma and promote understanding.
How You Can Support
Educate yourself and others: Share knowledge about HIV/AIDS and its impact on women and marginalized communities.
Advocate for systemic change: Push for policies that ensure equitable access to care and address the root causes of vulnerability.
Support local organizations: Consider volunteering with or donating to groups like IWCS that work to support individuals living with HIV/AIDS.
This World AIDS Day, let’s renew our commitment to creating a world where every woman, girl, and non-binary individual impacted by HIV/AIDS is met with compassion, understanding, and the resources they deserve. Together, we can achieve a future free from the stigma and inequality surrounding HIV.
For questions or support, reach out to the Interior Women's Centre Society. We are here to help you every step of the way: advocate@interiorwomenscentre.org
References
British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS. (2017, February). HIV Pulse Issue 4 Fact Sheet: Women and HIV in British Columbia. British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS. For questions, contact hiv-pulse@cfenet.ubc.ca.
