A recent increase in the number of new HIV diagnoses in Canada is a reminder there is work to be done to end the HIV epidemic. HIV is a virus that weakens the immune system and if left untreated, it will advance to AIDS. It is usually passed through sex, sharing needles, or in some cases during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding/chestfeeding.
December 1 is World AIDS Day, a global movement intended to unite people around the world in the fight to end HIV and AIDS, to combat stigma and stand in solidarity with people living with HIV/AIDS. It also marks the start of
Indigenous AIDS Awareness Week, a time to honour the experiences of Indigenous Peoples living with and affected by HIV/AIDS.
While there is no cure, developments in treatment mean that many people living with HIV who receive treatment will not develop AIDS. When HIV is treated effectively, a person's viral load becomes undetectable which means there is no risk of transmission to sexual partners.
In 2023, Canada had 2,434 new diagnoses of HIV, a 35 per cent increase from 2022. Meanwhile, BC's rates of new HIV diagnosis have remained relatively stable and below national levels. Since 2020,
annual rates in BC have remained below 3 per 100,000 population. The distribution of diagnoses has remained consistent, with the epidemic continuing to primarily affect men.
“We don’t know for certain why HIV rates have increased, but there are factors that likely explain it. Increased awareness leading to more testing may be one aspect; this could result in increased detection. Conversely, even in areas with seemingly ‘good’ access to health care and prevention interventions like PrEP, there are many individuals from equity-deserving groups who experience stigma, intersecting conditions like mental health issues, and other factors that may hinder their access to these critical tools.” – Troy Grennan Physician Lead, HIV/STI Program, BCCDC
Here are some important things to know about preventing HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs):
If you are HIV positive, treatment known as
Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) is available. These medications reduce the level of virus in the blood. When viral loads are undetectable, the harm HIV can do to the immune system is reduced, resulting in fewer complications. This also means that the virus is untransmissible to sexual partners.
Condoms are great if they work for you and will reduce your chances of getting and passing HIV and other STIs to sexual partners. Internal condoms and dental dams are also an option and provide similar levels of protection when used appropriately. Learn more about
safer sex.
HIV PrEP is a daily or on-demand oral HIV medication that can be taken to prevent HIV infections. PrEP is for anyone who has a higher chance of getting HIV, regardless of gender, and is available to anyone over 16. Your health care provider can support you with this decision.
Learn about PrEP.
Regular STI testing is a great way to ensure you are taking control of your sexual health. Early detection of HIV, and other STIs like syphilis, is important for your long-term health. You can get tested through your health care provider, at a walk-in clinic, or in some communities through
GetCheckedOnline.
Whether you're a BC resident, or newcomer to the province, it's important to know that HIV testing, prevention, and treatment services are available regardless of financial circumstances or immigration status. If you're unsure about how to access HIV testing, PrEP, or treatment, healthcare providers and community organizations listed below can help connect you to care.
