Addressing reluctance to STBBI screening

CCDR

Volume 45-2/3, February 7, 2019: Multidrug resistant gonorrhea

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Canadians are still reluctant to get tested for sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBI)

Canadians are still reluctant to get tested for sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBI)

Text description: Infographic

Canadians are still reluctant to get tested for sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBI)
Take an active approach to STBBI testing

In 2018, 50% of Canadians indicated that they had never been tested for STBBI

Why are Canadians not getting tested for STBBI?

  • Fear of a positive result
  • Stigma associated with STBBI
  • No symptoms
  • Do not see themselves as being at risk

Canadians also identified common reasons they might not reach out to their doctor or pharmacist.

  • Stigma and fear of being judged
  • Concerns over privacy
  • Unsure if they would receive meaningful advice
  • STI are difficult to talk about
  • No established relationship with the healthcare provider

59% of Canadians believe that the responsibility to request an STBBI test is shared equally between the patient and the healthcare provider.

Have the conversation with your patients

Provide

  • trauma-informed and culturally sensitive care
  • confidentiality
  • a sex-positive approach, free of judgement
  • a safe and respectful space, free of stigma and discrimination
  • information on risk factors

Discuss

  • routes of transmission
  • benefits of early diagnosis
  • prevention (including PrEP and PEP)
  • ease of testing (often involving only a simple blood test)
  • available testing and treatment options
  • available pre- and post-test counselling

Learn more: Visit Canada.ca and search SEXUAL HEALTH

*As reported in the Canadians’ Awareness, Knowledge, and Attitudes Related to Sexually Transmitted and Blood-Borne Infections: 2018 Findings Report

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