PAN was a member of the team that studied awareness, acceptance, and impact of U = U (Undetectable equals Untransmittable) among people living with HIV across Canada, and explored differences across sociodemographic characteristics. The paper was published in AIDS Care Journal. Abstract below, with link to full article at the bottom of the page.
Abstract
Undetectable equals Untransmittable (U = U) is a pivotal tool for HIV prevention, stigma reduction, and improving quality of life for people living with HIV. This study examined awareness, acceptance, and impact of U = U among people living with HIV across Canada, and explored differences across sociodemographic characteristics.
From 2018–2024, 1,083 participants were recruited in-person and online using snowball sampling. Peer researchers conducted interviews, initially in person and later mostly online due to COVID-19. Demographic data and U = U outcomes were collected and analyzed using multivariate logistic regression. Overall, 72% of participants had heard of U = U, 67% strongly accepted it, and 51% had discussed it with a healthcare provider. Awareness and acceptance were lower among heterosexual and bisexual participants. Cis-women and participants who were unemployed were less likely to report positive impacts from U = U. Black-identifying participants were more likely to report benefits, while Indigenous participants were more likely to believe U = U could reduce stigma and shift public opinion. Older participants were less likely to discuss U = U with a healthcare provider.
Findings highlight U = U’s potential to reduce stigma, but gaps remain in awareness, acceptance, and provider communication. Tailored strategies are needed to engage diverse communities and support healthcare providers in confidently sharing the zero-risk message.