The role of resiliency in responding to bloodborne viral and sexually transmitted infections in Indigenous communities [ 2005 - 2013 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: A/Pr Edward Wilkes (Principal investigator) ,  Prof John Kaldor (Principal investigator) ,  A/Pr Christopher Lawrence ,  A/Pr Garrett Prestage ,  A/Pr Kathryn Panaretto
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Brief description HIV-AIDS has become one of the most important health problems in the world today. Like several other infectious diseases, it is mainly spread by behaviours that most people consider to be part of their private lives, such as sexual intercourse and drug use. In many societies, the search for ways to prevent and treat these infectious has been complicated by the fact that people find them embarrassing to discuss, or fear discrimination if they have them. While surveys of sexually transmitted infections have found high rates in some Indigenous communities in Australia, New Zealand and Canada, so far only Canada has seen increased rates of HIV-AIDS among Indigenous people. There is much we need to learn about prevention and treatment in Indigenous people. We are therefore proposing to set up collaborative studies in each of the three countries that will explore how Indigenous people are able to protect themselves against these infections. We are especially interested in finding out about their resiliency, the way in which they make use of their own and their communities� strengths to protect themselves and enhance their health and well-being. A good understanding of what resiliency is about will help us discover how Indigenous health programs can help all people in their communities to have the best chance of avoiding these infections, or getting the right kind of care, support and treatment if they do have one or more of these infections. The research will be done in full collaboration with Indigenous communities in every aspect, from planning through to regular reporting of results. The program will provide opportunities for Indigenous people in the three countries to develop and enhance research skills in this important area, and allow non-Indigenous people to share knowledge and experience with Indigenous communities.

Funding Amount $AUD 1,833,739.57

Funding Scheme NHMRC Strategic Awards

Notes International Indigenous Health Res Partnership