SUMMARY OF TWO CANADIAN STUDIES (CHAPTER 3)

Ontario First nations AIDS and Healthy Lifestyle Survey

Researchers: University of Toronto and First Nations Steering Committee.

Purpose: to assess knowledge, attitudes and behaviour re. HIV among Ontario First Nations.

Method: random selection of equal numbers of men and women, four age groups; face to face interviews plus answer booklet for sensitive questions; interviewers were from the communities studied, trained for the study, native language used.

Results: high rate of risky behaviours. Importance of culturally sensitive methodology.

Gay and Bisexual Men

Researchers: three Canadian universities plus Canadian AIDS Society.

Purpose: assess knowledge, attitudes and behaviour of gay and bisexual men in order to design strategies to prevent HIV/AIDS.

Method: addressed to men in general without specifying gay or bi (some men are either but self-label as heterosexual). Questionnaires to over 4000 men in large and small communities across the country, using venues such as gay bars and dances and bath houses. 86% response rate. Age range 16 to 75, all income levels, mostly high educational level..

Results: although there have been improvements, one quarter still reported unprotected anal intercourse; regional differences, smaller communities more risky sex

Caveat: because of the venues, not generalizable to all gay or bi men.