PrEP & Black Communities
HIV weakens the immune system the body’s built-in defence against disease and illness. If untreated, HIV can lead to death. In Canada, and in Alberta, people who belong to African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) communities are affected by HIV at much greater rates than people who are not ACB:
In 2014, the rate of new HIV infections among people from African, Caribbean and Black (ACB) communities was about 6 times higher than among other Canadians.
In 2017, amongst women, 46% of new HIV infections were amongst those identified as African, Caribbean or Black.
While black people represent about 1 in 35 people in Canada, they represent about 1 in 7 people living with HIV in Canada.
PrEP is a pill that prevents HIV infection. When taken at least four times per week, PrEP is 99% effective at preventing HIV infection. In Alberta, It can be accessed for free by most who need it.
Given the significant impact of HIV on ACB communities in Alberta, PrEP could be a valuable tool to reduce the chance of HIV infection for many ACB community members. Unfortunately, discussions about HIV, PrEP, and sexual health are often approached with shame and silence in ACB communities. Because of this, many ACB community members do not have access to information about PrEP and how to access it. PrEP Alberta and Ribbon rouge are working together to increase PrEP awareness and access amongst ACB communities in Alberta. Explore the links below to learn more about PrEP today.
PrEP Access Information
Interested in learning more about PrEP and how to access it? Click the button below to learn about what PrEP is, how to access PrEP and PrEP coverage, and what you can expect to experience while taking PREP.
Information for Healthcare and Service Providers
If you are in a role where you are supporting people who might benefit from PrEP, this section includes information and resources just for you, including an online PrEP training session, print and social media awareness resources, and the results of a community consultation which discusses PrEP access barriers and challenges for black communities and others affected by HIV in Alberta.
The ACB Photovoice Project
Coming Soon
Connect with Ribbon Rouge
The Ribbon Rouge Foundation serves African, Caribbean and Black people in Alberta, by facilitating systems change, in structural and social factors that lead to poorer health outcomes, including HIV related health outcomes in African, Caribbean, Black communities. Ribbon Rouge has partnered with PrEP Alberta to increase PrEP awareness and knowledge amongst black communities in Alberta. Click the button below to connect with Ribbon Rouge.