The National Aboriginal Hep C Awareness Month has been launched by the Canadian Aboriginal AIDS Network, the Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada and Hepatitis Services, and the BC Centre for Disease Control – Hepatitis C Services.
The campaign was designed to highlight the right of Aboriginal People to access and benefit from hep C prevention, education, and awareness. It was also designed to highlight their right to access related care, treatment, and supports needed to maintain a quality of life in a culturally appropriate manner.
Research indicates that infection rates for hep C are higher among Aboriginal people (1% to 18%) compared with other Canadians (0.5% to 2%).
The higher rates of hep C among Aboriginal people are directly linked to an inequality of health services. Poor health, poverty, low education, limited housing, and high unemployment may also be factors that contribute to the spread of hep C.
The patterns of infection and the various factors that place Aboriginal people at risk are different from other Canadians, thus, hep C prevention, education, and health promotion, should be different as well.
The month was launched in hopes of an increased participation, collaboration, and meaningful engagement and awareness about hep C.
BC National Aboriginal Hep C Awareness Month Event
Date: May 25, 2016
Time: 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Location: Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre, Chief Simon Baker Room, 1607 East Hastings Street, Vancouver
For more information please visit: www.caan.ca