Addressing reluctance to STBBI screening

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