Government of Canada 2002 Report to the Secretary
General of the United Nations on the UNGASS Declaration of Commitment
on HIV/AIDS
The State of the Epidemic in Canada
An estimated 49,800 people were living with HIV/AIDS in Canada at the
end of 1999, an increase of 24% increase from the estimated 40,100 at
the end in 1996. The number of new HIV infections in 1999 was estimated
at about 4,200 - essentially unchanged since 1996. Significant changes
in infection rates have occurred within population subgroups, as substantiated
by several studies across Canada and by national HIV/AIDS surveillance
data.
Sexual behaviour continues to be the principal means of transmitting
HIV. New infections occurred primarily among men who have sex with men
(38% of new infections) and injection drug users (34%), but the proportion
of new infections among heterosexuals who do not inject drugs is also
significant at 21%. Research studies in Toronto and Vancouver confirm
these findings. In 2000, for the first time since the mid-1980s, an increased
number of newly diagnosed HIV cases among men who have sex with men was
reported to Health Canada's HIV surveillance system.
Recent surveillance data show that the HIV epidemic is far from over
in Canada. In 2001, the number of new HIV-positive test reports increased
for the first time since 1995. In addition, the proportion of new test
reports attributed to heterosexual exposure has increased steadily over
time, from 8% before 1996 to 33% in 2001. Correspondingly, women now account
for 25% of new positive test reports, up from 11% before 1996.
Shifts in the epidemic are also occurring among other populations. The
estimated number of new infections among injection drug users declined
by 27% between 1996 and 1999. The annual number of newly diagnosed HIV
cases in this population also declined in the national surveillance data.
However, targeted studies across Canada have found that HIV infection
rates among injection drug users are not declining in all areas of the
country.
An estimated 370 Aboriginal people become infected with HIV each year,
an average of more than one each day. The facts are equally stark in the
correctional environment. The HIV prevalence rate in federal prisons is
an estimated 1.6% of inmates tested.
National surveillance data provide a picture of those who come forward
for testing and are found to be HIV-positive. At the same time, an estimated
15,000 Canadians who are infected with HIV have not been diagnosed and
are unaware that they are HIV-positive. These individuals represent a
significant challenge for prevention, care and treatment.
![*](/web/20061211042810im_/http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/images/ahc-asc/arrow_up.gif)
Realities and Challenges
Knowledge has been gained and progress achieved in the fight against
HIV/AIDS, but the epidemic remains uncontrolled, and many challenges lie
ahead.
HIV/AIDS continues to spread in Canada.
People with HIV/AIDS are living longer, mainly because of the availability
of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). At the same time, new
infections continue to occur, placing greater demands on Canada's health
care and social service systems, workers in the HIV/AIDS community, and
society in general. Clearly, new prevention efforts are needed to reach
those living with HIV/AIDS and those vulnerable to infection.
An estimated one-third of people living with HIV/AIDS in Canada are
not aware that they are infected.
Canada must remain vigilant in monitoring the epidemic. Innovative ways
of encouraging people to come forward for HIV testing must be found so
that those who are HIV-positive can have access to care, treatment, support
and prevention programs as soon as possible after they have become infected.
The epidemic is a moving target.
The face of the HIV/AIDS epidemic continues to change. After some successful
prevention work in the early 1990s, HIV infection is once again increasing
among men who have sex with men. Users of injection drugs, women and Aboriginal
people have become increasingly vulnerable to HIV infection. Canada's
response must be flexible enough to address changes in the epidemic while
not jeopardizing earlier gains.
HIV/AIDS treatments are failing.
As many as 4,000 HIV-positive Canadians are believed to be in need of
an alternative to HAART because of drug intolerance or ineffectiveness,
and this number is growing. New treatments are needed to avoid an increase
in AIDS-related deaths. The appearance of multi-drug-resistant HIV intensifies
these challenges.
Action on HIV/AIDS in Canada
The national response to HIV/AIDS is based on early development of national
standards (including standards for condoms and other products and devices)
and practices (including testing procedures) and an established and operational
infrastructure to support action and dialogue.
As well, the development and dissemination of information by local and
national organizations on topics ranging from treatment options to palliative
care to pregnancy characterized Canada's response from the earliest days
of the epidemic.
![*](/web/20061211042810im_/http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/images/ahc-asc/arrow_up.gif)
In 1990, the federal government established the National AIDS Strategy
(NAS) to help organize the various players into a more formal, interconnected
approach. In 1993, the NAS was renewed for five years, with an increase
in annual funding from $37.3 million to $42.2 million. [1]
Following extensive consultations with stakeholders in 1997, the Canadian
Strategy on HIV/AIDS (CSHA) was launched in 1998 with permanent funding
for a continuing, co-ordinated national response. The CSHA represents
a shift from a disease-oriented approach under the NAS to one that looks
at root causes, determinants of health, and other dimensions of the HIV
epidemic. People living with HIV/AIDS and those at risk of HIV infection
are the focus of efforts under the CSHA.
The Canadian Strategy on HIV/AIDS
The CSHA opened a new era in HIV/AIDS programming. Given its system of
government, which divides or shares responsibilities in areas such as
health and social services between federal, provincial and territorial
governments, [2] Canada has a complex
network of community-based, institutional and governmental systems that
strive for an appropriate and effective response to HIV/AIDS. All major
stakeholders are considered full partners in this response, linked by
multiple working relationships and a shared determination to win the fight
against HIV/AIDS.
The CSHA provides a framework for unprecedented collaboration among these
partners and for innovation and engagement in addressing the epidemic.
CSHA partners have set a challenging agenda. Efforts need to be intensified,
and more sectors of society need to join the campaign. CSHA partners are
committed to:
- keeping HIV/AIDS on the public agenda, positioning HIV/AIDS within
a broad social justice context,
- expanding the pan-Canadian approach by establishing new partnerships
with essential stakeholders and sectors,
- fulfilling Canada's obligations under the UNGASS Declaration of Commitment,
with its focus on intensifying regional, national and international
responses to HIV/AIDS,
- continuing to improve surveillance systems,
- revitalizing prevention efforts that integrate prevention and care,
treatment and support programs for Canadians living with or at risk
of HIV/AIDS,
- engaging vulnerable populations in developing and implementing unique
approaches to addressing the needs of people living with or vulnerable
to HIV/AIDS,
- setting HIV/AIDS research priorities and increasingly linking Canadian
efforts to international research activities, with the goal of finding
effective vaccines, drugs and therapies and, ultimately, a cure for
HIV/AIDS, and
- reviewing CSHA funding priorities to maximize the impact of financial
resources.
In pursuing these goals, three policy directions guide the CSHA:
- enhanced sustainability and integration,
- increased focus on those most at risk, and
- increased public accountability.
![*](/web/20061211042810im_/http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/images/ahc-asc/arrow_up.gif)
Health Canada, as the lead federal department for issues related to HIV/AIDS,
co-ordinates the CSHA nationally with an annual budget of $42.2 million,
allocated as follows.
CSHA Strategic Areas and Funding Allocations
($ millions)
Prevention |
3.90 |
Community development and support to non-governmental organizations |
10.00 |
Care, treatment and support |
4.75 |
Research |
13.15 |
Surveillance |
4.30 |
International collaboration |
0.30 |
Legal, ethical and human rights |
0.70 |
Aboriginal health and community development |
2.60 |
Correctional Service Canada |
0.60 |
Consultation, evaluation, monitoring and reporting |
1.90 |
Total |
42.20 |
Several responsibility centres within Health Canada contribute to the
work of co-ordinating the CSHA:
The Centre for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, including
its the HIV/AIDS Policy, Coordination and Programs Division, conducts
national surveillance and research on the epidemiology and laboratory
science related to HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted disease and tuberculosis
and develops recommendations for their control. The CSHA is co-ordinated
through the Centre.
The departmental Program Evaluation Division is responsible for assessing
program effectiveness.
The First Nations and Inuit Health Branch provides HIV/AIDS education
and prevention programming and related health care services to First Nations
and Inuit communities. The Branch also commits $2.5 million in non-CSHA
moneys to meet the needs of First Nations people living on reserves and
Inuit people living in Inuit communities.
The regional offices of Health Canada provide a focus for co-ordination
and input across the country.
The International Affairs Directorate in the Department's Policy Branch,
implements the international collaboration component of the CSHA, focusing
on increasing the effectiveness of existing collaboration among voluntary
organizations, the private sector, and federal government departments.
The other federal government partners in the CSHA are the Canadian Institutes
of Health Research and Correctional Service Canada:
![*](/web/20061211042810im_/http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/images/ahc-asc/arrow_up.gif)
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) is Canada's major
federal funding agency for health research and administers most of the
research funds for the CSHA. The CIHR supports all aspects of health research,
including biomedical, clinical science, health systems and services, and
the social, cultural and other factors influencing population health.
The CIHR manages most of the CSHA's extramural research program and also
provided $4.8 million from its own budget for HIV/AIDS research in 2001-2002.
Correctional Service Canada, an agency of the Ministry of the Solicitor
General, is responsible for the health of inmates in federal correctional
facilities and plays an important national leadership role in contributing
to the understanding of HIV/AIDS in the correctional environment. Correctional
Service Canada invests $3 million annually, over and above the funding
provided by the CSHA, in HIV/AIDS programming in federal penitentiaries.
In addition to federal initiatives and funding, provincial and territorial
governments provide major financial contributions to delivering HIV/AIDS-related
health care services, research and prevention activities. The provinces
in particular account for significant, and in some cases rising, expenditures
on HIV/AIDS, not least because of the cost of treating and caring for
people living with HIV/AIDS.
The Government of Canada has emerged as a strong partner in the global
response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic:
The Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) identified HIV/AIDS
was one of its four social development priorities in September 2000. CIDA
funding for HIV/AIDS initiatives is projected to increase incrementally
from $23 million in 2000-2001 to $80 million by 2004-2005, for a total
five-year investment of $270 million.
The International Development Research Centre
In addition, in July 2001 the Government of Canada announced that it
would contribute $150 million over four years to the Global Fund to Fight
AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria.
National Advisory Committees
At the national level, committees representing a broad range of views
and perspectives provide strategic advice and policy directions that influence
the CSHA.
The Ministerial Council on HIV/AIDS provides advice to the federal
Minister of Health on aspects of HIV/AIDS that are national in scope.
Its membership reflects a broad range of experience and knowledge and
includes five seats designated for Canadians living with HIV/AIDS. The
Council has focused on evaluating and monitoring the CSHA, championing
current and emerging issues, and offering a vision for the long term.
In 2000-2001, the Council helped shape Health Canada's policy recommendations
to Citizenship and Immigration Canada on the screening of migrants for
HIV and to Correctional Service Canada on the provision of HIV/AIDS prevention,
care and support services to inmates in federal prisons. The Council's
paper, "Taking Stock: Assessing the Adequacy of the Government of Canada
Investment in the Canadian Strategy on HIV/AIDS", released in January
2001, advised on the need for additional public funding for the CSHA.
The Council has also brought attention to the need for more community-based
research and to the spread of HIV among vulnerable populations, including
injection drug users, women and Aboriginal people.
![*](/web/20061211042810im_/http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/images/ahc-asc/arrow_up.gif)
The Federal/Provincial/Territorial Advisory Committee on AIDS
(FPT AIDS) provides policy advice to the Conference of Deputy Ministers
of Health, based on gathering, analyzing and sharing information on emerging
issues. FPT AIDS participated in a collaborative effort with four other
federal/provincial/territorial committees to examine injection drug use
as a health issue. The resulting report provides a framework for multi-level
strategies to reduce the harms associated with injection drug use and
promotes increased co-ordination and collaboration across jurisdictions
and sectors. The Conference of Deputy Ministers subsequently released
the report for broader consultation. In addition, FPT AIDS has dealt with
a broad range of issues related to Aboriginal people and with legal issues
concerning individuals who are unwilling or unable to prevent HIV transmission.
The International HIV/AIDS Working Group guides the international
collaboration element of the CSHA. Composed of national and international
community-based organizations and various federal government departments,
the Working Group advises Health Canada's International Affairs Directorate
on relevant collaborative international efforts.
Setting Strategic Direction under the CSHA
Changes in the epidemic and emerging challenges are limiting Canada's
ability to sustain gains and make new progress. In October 2000, at the
first CSHA direction-setting meeting, more than 125 individuals representing
the full range of CSHA multisectoral partners established 10 national
strategic directions to guide the CSHA over the next two to three years:
Mobilize governments at all levels, Aboriginal governments and community
leaders to take co-ordinated action on HIV/AIDS.
In collaboration with Aboriginal people, build a national HIV/AIDS strategy
for all Aboriginal people and their chosen communities within the CSHA.
Build an information strategy to identify, obtain, analyze, validate,
communicate and facilitate the use of a broad base of information required
to achieve the goals of the CSHA.
Build public awareness of the impact of the HIV epidemic in Canada and
globally; encourage political leadership that advances Canada's response
to the epidemic; and mobilize politicians, bureaucrats and community leaders.
Build a prevention strategy that sets specific goals, is based on principles,
develops appropriate strategies, and includes culturally specific programs.
This strategy must be co-ordinated nationally, developed collaboratively
and implemented locally.
Build a strategic approach to care, treatment and support to ensure
that people living with HIV/AIDS have equal and seamless access to care,
treatment and support.
Renew and sustain pan-Canadian expertise and develop broad-based intersectoral
knowledge of HIV/AIDS.
Engage vulnerable individuals in Canada in an inclusive and empowering
way in order to build unique approaches that are flexible, innovative,
measurable and accountable.
![*](/web/20061211042810im_/http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/images/ahc-asc/arrow_up.gif)
Move to a social justice framework that is based on the determinants
of health in order to address the vulnerabilities of people living with
and at risk of HIV/AIDS.
Develop a five-year operational/strategic plan for the CSHA that builds
SMARTER (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, time-limited, effective,
relevant) objectives for each CSHA component. Develop annual workplans
based on these objectives.
A second direction-setting meeting was held in April 2002; the results
of that meeting are in the process of being prepared.
Shaping a Co-ordinated Canadian Response. Many organizations
are engaged in addressing HIV/AIDS. Co-ordination and collaboration strengthen
policy and programming efforts.
Building a Pan-Canadian Response to HIV/AIDS. The CSHA is promoting
new partnerships, both within the traditional HIV/AIDS community and with
non-traditional stakeholders.
Engaging in the Global Response to HIV/AIDS. Canada is committed
to halting the global spread of HIV and to helping developing countries
strengthen their response.
Strengthening the Canadian Response Through Science. Research
in biomedical, clinical and social sciences is strengthening the future
response.
Increasing the Use of Reliable Information. Resources are being
developed and disseminated for use by persons living with or at risk of
HIV/AIDS and by others involved in the Canadian response.
Increasing Capacity Across the HIV/AIDS Spectrum. The CSHA is
strengthening the capacity of individuals and groups to respond to a complex
and widespread epidemic that has significant health, socio-economic and
human rights implications for society.
How this Report was Prepared
As described earlier and in Annex A, the organization of Canada's health
system gives rise to multiple interlocking responsibilities for HIV/AIDS
programs and services. As the federal government had lead responsibility
for preparing this report, and given the time constraints involved, it
was decided to use the CSHA as the focus for the report. As a result,
many HIV/AIDS activities and initiatives in other federal departments
and agencies, provincial and territorial governments, and non-governmental
organizations are not covered here.
The report was compiled by Health Canada's International Affairs Directorate
(IAD), which began by asking for input from its CSHA partners and from
the Canadian International Development Agency. The following federal departments
and agencies responded to the questionnaire and provided other input for
the draft report.
Health Canada, including
![*](/web/20061211042810im_/http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/images/ahc-asc/arrow_up.gif)
- Centre for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control
- First Nations and Inuit Health Branch
- International Affairs Directorate
- Canadian Institutes of Health Research
- Correctional Service Canada
- Canadian International Development Agency
The IAD then circulated a draft report for review and comments by the
following partners and collaborators:
- the CSHA partners who had provided input and by CIDA,
- the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Advisory Committee on AIDS, and
the IAD's International HIV/AIDS Working Group, composed of representatives
from five key national non-governmental organizations:
- Canadian Aids Society
- Canadian Public Health Association
- Canadian HIV/AIDS Legal Network
- Interagency Coalition on AIDS and Development
- International Council of AIDS Service Organizations
The IAD received feedback from reviewers, incorporated it in the draft
report, and again circulated the revised report to CSHA partners for a
final review. The report was also reviewed by the federal Department of
Foreign Affairs and International Trade.
Responses to the Questionnaire
- Leadership-Strategy Development (2003 Target)
1.1 Does the country have a multisectoral National Strategic
Plan on HIV/AIDS?
Yes. Multisectoral partnerships are fundamental to the Canadian
Strategy on HIV/AIDS. At every stage of planning and delivery, the
CSHA involves governments, national and regional organizations advocating
on behalf of persons living with HIV and AIDS (PHAs), and professional
associations representing persons working in care, treatment and support,
as well as PHAs.
The April 2002 national direction-setting meeting for the CSHA agreed
to develop a five-year strategic and operational plan. Many provinces
also have strategies and programs on HIV/AIDS.
Health Canada's First Nations and Inuit Health Branch, along with
the Centre for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, is supporting
development of a National Aboriginal Strategy for HIV/AIDS. The strategy,
now in its developmental stage, is directed by a working group made
up of representatives from Aboriginal organizations involved in HIV/AIDS
issues and programming. In the absence of a national Aboriginal strategy
until now, the First Nations and Inuit Health Branch is providing
support for HIV/AIDS programs in seven regions and one territory.
All these regions have regionally based strategies involving collaboration
with provinces, Health Canada's Population and Public Health Branch,
and other departments. Their strategies will support and be supported
by the National Aboriginal Strategy.
1.2 Has HIV/AIDS been integrated into the overall national development
plan including poverty-reduction strategies?
Yes. The process of integrating determinants of health, including
poverty, is under way through key directions now set for the CSHA.
Among these are commitments for mobilizing integrated action on HIV/AIDS
and for putting in place a social justice framework to guide the Strategy.
This includes the strategic integration of HIV/AIDS into the work
of other governmental departments and non-governmental sectors.
1.3 Have national policies/strategies been developed to strengthen
health, education and legal systems to support an effective response
to HIV/AIDS?
These are in the process of being developed. The goals and
the national directions of the CSHA are oriented toward broad sectoral
involvement. Examples of activities are as follows:
The development of a strategic workplan now being undertaken by the
Federal/Provincial/ Territorial Advisory Committee on AIDS aimed at
improved health policies and strategies. Funding to the Council of
Ministers of Education of Canada to conduct the Youth, Sexual Health
and HIV/AIDS Study to determine the relationship between the determinants
of health, HIV and sexual health. This is potentially a precursor
to a national strategy for integrating HIV/AIDS into education systems
and programs. Funding for operations and policy development to the
Canadian HIV/AIDS Legal Network. Additional support is required for
initiatives such as an advocates' manual on HIV/AIDS, human rights
education, the reorientation of Canada's drug laws and policies and
prison policies from the perspective of harm reduction (including
preventing spread of HIV and improving access to care, treatment and
support), expanding coverage of medically necessary pharmaceuticals
in public health insurance plans, and assessing the health and human
rights impacts of international trade laws, especially with respect
to HIV.
In the corrections field, Correctional Service Canada has developed
a national peer education and counselling program with specific components
to address vulnerable populations, specifically Aboriginal and women
offenders. This program provides education about HIV transmission,
risk factors and prevention messages delivered by peers who have been
trained by local experts.
In addition, all inmates entering federal facilities receive the Reception
Awareness Program, giving an overview of harm reduction initiatives
and of the programs, testing and treatment opportunities available
to them. CSC recognizes the varied learning capabilities of offenders
and has developed information materials about harm reduction in various
formats.
CSC also provides condoms, dental dams, bleach, and methadone
as harm reduction tools to decrease the spread of infectious diseases
within prison and into the community.
CSC provides voluntary testing with informed consent for HIV, Hepatitis
C and sexually transmitted diseases in all federal institutions, accompanied
by pre- and post-test counselling, and provides voluntary treatment
to all those infected with HIV. All federal offenders have access
to a specialist in HIV care and to legal assistance within the system.
1.4 Please note any problems or constraints encountered in
developing national strategies on HIV/AIDS and integrating them in
multisectoral development national plans.
The increase and prevalence of HIV in vulnerable individuals and populations
present vexing policy challenges. HIV/AIDS is just one of the social
and health challenges facing those living in environments and with
histories that predispose them to infection and illness, for example,
homeless persons and injection drug users. Responsibility for addressing
broad systemic and historical determinants of health, which cut across
multiple jurisdictions and mandates, is fragmented but has been identified
as an area for improvement and engagement. Development of a co-ordinated
national approach is under way.
Both the CSHA and the National Aboriginal Strategy processes require
efforts to engage all key stakeholders. This can be identified as
a constraint, as it takes time, effort, and will, especially when
resources are limited.
Additional support to develop and implement additional programs would
further assist in the development of multisectoral national plans.
- Prevention
2.1 Has the country established time-bound national targets
to achieve the internationally agreed prevention goal to reduce HIV
prevalence amongst young people aged 15-24 by 25% by 2005?
Development of these is under way and will inform national
strategic planning. All key players have agreed that Canada should
adopt a strategic approach to HIV prevention.
2.2 Has the country established national prevention targets
for groups that are particularly vulnerable?
No. Although national prevention targets have not been established,
the CSHA focuses on those most at risk. The CSHA has recently established
the importance of addressing vulnerability. A strategic approach to
this is under way.
The First Nations and Inuit Health Branch, working together with Aboriginal
peoples, has focused on community-based initiatives. While communities
vary in their needs and set different priorities, many communities
have youth as a target group for their prevention and promotion activities.
In prison settings, Correctional Service Canada has developed specific
prevention messages for particular target populations - specifically
Aboriginal populations, injection drug users, and women - in peer
education programs.
2.3 Are there prevention programmes in place that address
HIV/AIDS in the workplace?
Yes. Canada implemented AIDS-in-the-workplace programs beginning
in 1990. This work has subsequently been expanded upon in communities
and workplaces. Publications and guidelines on needle-stick injuries
are widely available, as are occupational post-exposure prophylactics.
Correctional Service Canada staff are given continuing education on
harm reduction, the transmission of infectious diseases, and prevention,
including universal precautions. CSC has a policy to provide and pay
for post-exposure prophylaxis for any staff member assessed by a physician
as having had a significant exposure.
2.4 Please note any problems or constraints encountered in
developing prevention programmes and setting targets.
Canada's constitutional division of responsibilities means that target-setting
and prevention programs may vary from province to province. Thus,
we have the challenge of developing effective mechanisms and increasing
the effectiveness of existing mechanisms (e.g., the Federal/Provincial/Territorial
Advisory Committee on AIDS), with respect to both policy and directed
funding, to ensure that national programs and targets are established.
There are also legal and policy constraints with respect to providing
safe injection equipment and sites and methadone treatment in prison.
2.5 Do programmes exist to prevent mother-to-child transmission
of HIV?
Yes. Voluntary provincial and territorial HIV testing programs
are available for pregnant women; however, the uptake is still not
sufficient to prevent some HIV infections in newborn babies. Treatments
are available in all provinces and territories to prevent mother-to-child
transmission of HIV.
For the First Nations and Inuit Health Branch, lack of long-term resource
and program commitments are constraints on setting targets. The lack
of surveillance and of resources for surveillance also restricts the
setting of targets.![*](/web/20061211042810im_/http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/images/ahc-asc/arrow_up.gif) Regional strategies vary for preventing mother-to-child transmission
among Aboriginal people. All regions provide awareness/educational
programs, and most distribute condoms, with some providing female
condoms. One region has a prenatal surveillance project that has received
support from the region's First Nations leadership. Some have family
support programs that would address this area. However there is no
uniform program or strategy across the country specifically for this
area. The National Aboriginal Strategy for HIV/AIDS is still in its
development phase but offers the potential to highlight this issue.
In the prison setting, prenatal care is provided for all pregnant
offenders. This includes voluntary testing for HIV. All women are
encouraged to participate in testing and/or appropriate treatment
to prevent transmission from mother to child. Opioid-dependent offenders
who are pregnant are eligible for methadone treatment to decrease
the risks associated with injection drug use and pregnancy.
The Federal/Provincial/Territorial Advisory Committee on AIDS has
Guiding Principles for HIV Testing of Women during Pregnancy,
which reinforce the application of the widely supported principles
of voluntarism, confidentiality and informed consent in the refinement
and development of relevant policy.
- Care, Support and Treatment (Targets by 2003 and 2005)
3.1 Does the country have a national policy/strategy to
address the factors affecting the provision of HIV-related drugs?
Yes. The Canada Health Act sets the standard for all provinces
and territories to provide all medically necessary physician and hospital
services to eligible residents. The direct provision of HIV-related
drugs is the responsibility of provinces and territories through their
respective drug access policies and programs. While the majority of
people living with HIV/AIDS have access to necessary drugs, instances
do occur where access is limited. Drug access and cost reimbursement
programs sometimes result in drug interruptions. For people living
in Canada without legal status, provision of drugs and receipt of
health care is tenuous.
As with the other HIV/AIDS program areas, there is no formal national
Aboriginal strategy related to the provision of HIV-related drugs
at present. The National Aboriginal Strategy now under development
has identified this as an area to be addressed. However, existing
regional strategies support care and community-based activities for
Aboriginal populations. These include Family Support Programs, teen/youth
support groups, culturally appropriate counselling, care and support
for Inuit, and grief workshops. Unfortunately, most communities hesitate
to provide treatment at this time because of lack of capacity in terms
of resources and training. Treatment is generally provided through
provincial medicare programs, and prescription medication is provided
to 'registered Indians' (First Nations people with status under the
Indian Act) and to Inuit under a program known as the Non-Insured
Benefits Program.
All inmates in the federal correctional system have access to HIV/AIDS
medication should they choose to commence treatment. Consultation
with institutional physicians and HIV/AIDS medical specialists determines
the most appropriate treatment.
3.2 Does the country have a national policy/strategy on drugs,
intellectual property rights and related practices?
Yes. Canada is a signatory to the Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual
Property Agreement and has legislation in place protecting drug patent
rights, including those for HIV/AIDS.
The First Nations and Inuit Health Branch has a policy of providing
'registered Indians' and recognized Inuit and Innu with prescription
drugs not covered by provincial, territorial or third-party health
insurance plans. This includes any HIV/AIDS medication that on the
Drug Benefit List approved by the Non-Insured Benefits Program.
3.3 Does the national plan provide for the progressive implementation
of comprehensive care strategies?
Yes. Given that many people living with HIV/AIDS who have multiple
needs are now challenging the ability of service providers to meet
a standard of comprehensiveness, the CSHA recently agreed to develop
a strategic approach to comprehensive care. Most provinces and territories
have strategies that include an approach to care. Some of these are
currently under review, and some jurisdictions are considering a determinants-of-health
approach.
The Federal/Provincial/Territorial Advisory Committee on AIDS addresses
cross-cutting issues affecting the provision of progressive implementation
of comprehensive care.
HIV/AIDS treatment guidelines and modules have been developed using
a multidisciplinary and multisectoral approach that included people
living with HIV/AIDS. Guidelines have also been established to assist
the work of social workers, nurses and physicians.
Correctional Service Canada follows community standards regarding
comprehensive care strategies, on the advice of community specialists.
Strategies to increase the number of inmates accessing testing and
treatment have been developed within CSC national and regional headquarters.
3.4 Does the country have a national policy/strategy to provide
psycho-social care for those affected by HIV/AIDS?
Yes. A new strategic approach to care, treatment and support, including
psycho-social care, is under way. The goals of the CSHA guide the
national approach to addressing socio-economic factors and the impact
of the epidemic. This includes psycho-social care.
Considerable work has been completed on best practices in this field.
Funding from the federal government and from some provinces and territories
is provided to community organizations and to national non-governmental
organizations to implement responses that include these activities.
An example is the Canadian Working Group on HIV/AIDS and Rehabilitation,
which advises on and funds short-term projects in rehabilitation,
disability, income maintenance and work issues.
All federal offenders have access to the services of professional
psychologists and psychiatrists. Discharge planning is used to connect
the HIV-positive offender to services in the community upon release
from jail.
3.5 Please note any problems or constraints encountered in
developing policies and plans on care and support.
Delivery of care and support is the responsibility of provinces and
territories, with the exception of certain populations, such as First
Nations people living on reserves and Inuit people living in Inuit
communities, for whom medical and health services are a federal responsibility.
As a result, policies may vary from one jurisdiction to another;
the federal government may have influence, but no control. Some people
have moved from one part of the country to another to improve their
care.
Canada's geography and population distribution sometimes result in
a disparity of services for those not close to HIV/AIDS resources.
Canada is also struggling with shortages of human resources in some
parts of the country, and this has an impact on the delivery of HIV/AIDS
services.
![*](/web/20061211042810im_/http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/images/ahc-asc/arrow_up.gif) For the First Nations and Inuit Health Branch, constraints encountered
in developing policies and plans on care and support probably have
a lot to do with diversity in geography, culture and capacity. Developing
appropriate and relevant policies and plans requires consultation,
time and resources. Limited resources area also a general constraint,
affecting everything from capacity building and training to operational
resources for programming.
- HIV/AIDS and Human Rights
4.1 Does the country have legislation, regulations and/or other
measures in place to eliminate all forms of discrimination against
people living with HIV/AIDS?
Yes. Canadian courts have confirmed that HIV seropositivity and AIDS,
and suspicion of these conditions, constitute a disability. Human
rights legislation exists at the federal level and in each province
and territory, protecting, among other things, the rights of people
with a disability and imposing a duty on service providers to accommodate
their special needs. In addition, the Canadian Charter of Rights
and Freedoms has been invoked successfully to protect people living
with HIV/AIDS in several contexts.
In recognition of First Nations and Inuit rights and their need to
develop culturally relevant programs, the First Nations and Inuit
Health Branch takes a community-based approach to program development,
and most of the HIV/AIDS resources available through the Branch are
directed to community-based initiatives. In all regions, collaborative
strategies and program development involve voices from the various
sectors, including people living with HIV/AIDS.
4.2 Does the country have a national policy/strategy for
the promotion and realization of the rights of women who are affected
or at-risk of HIV infection?
No. However, the human rights and constitutional provisions cited
earlier provide protection from gender discrimination and from adverse-effect
discrimination.
The National Aboriginal Strategy for HIV/AIDS will also address gender-specific
issues.
4.3 Does the policy/strategy assess dimensions that place
women and girls at particular risk of HIV infection?
Specific initiatives to address women and HIV issues have been implemented
across Canada, including a national conference on women and HIV and
the development of gender specific resources and programs.
The National Aboriginal Strategy for HIV/AIDS will address factors
that place women and girls at risk of HIV infection.
Correctional Service Canada is obliged by law to provide programming
that is gender-specific and Aboriginal-specific. CSC has developed
a draft national strategy to address gender-specific issues around
women and infectious diseases, especially HIV. The strategy considers
issues such as later diagnosis among women, women as caregivers, sex-trade
work, disempowerment, position in society, self-esteem, and abuse.
4.4 Are HIV/AIDS programmes and strategies gender sensitive?
Where gender is seen as a determinant of health, as in the cases
of gay men or women, then gender considerations are incorporated.
Further, Canada's broad equality laws and policies in place address
gender issues.
Correctional Service Canada has developed a gender-sensitive peer
counselling program for women and HIV/AIDS. Women offenders are housed
in institutions separate from male offenders, and all programs account
for gender. For the last seven years, female inmates have been housed
in institutions closer to their homes to encourage support from families
and keep open links with children. In addition, a gender- and culturally
appropriate Aboriginal healing lodge has been established for Aboriginal
women.
4.5 Have steps been taken to develop or strengthen monitoring
and evaluation mechanisms to track progress in implementation, and
in the promotion and protection of human rights of people living with
HIV/AIDS?
The Canadian Strategy on HIV/AIDS has a monitoring and evaluation
component for all activities, including legal, ethical and human rights
commitments and activities.
The human and constitutional rights of all Canadians, described earlier,
assert the rights of people living with HIV/AIDS and provide remedies
when rights are violated. Further, government and civil society partners
agreed in April 2002 on establishing a social justice framework to
guide the CSHA, based on the following principles: a rights-based
approach, operating across the determinants of health, and integrative
approach, and an approach that considers the lens of social inclusion.
Correctional Service Canada has several mechanisms in place to ensure
human rights issues are addressed, including the legislation governing
its mandate. A unit within CSC deals with human rights issues, and
a grievance process is in place for inmates who believe their human
rights have been infringed. Due process is followed until there is
resolution of the issue. CSC has established Citizen Advisory Committees
with access to all federal institutions to determine that human rights
issues are addressed. Inmates have access to a committee any time
during their incarceration. In addition, CSC meets regularly with
community-based AIDS service organizations to discuss issues identified
in the treatment of offenders living with HIV/AIDS. CSC offers human
rights seminars for staff on a regular basis.
![*](/web/20061211042810im_/http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/images/ahc-asc/arrow_up.gif) 4.6 Please note any problems or constraints encountered in
developing human rights policies.
Those most vulnerable to HIV/AIDS are often also those most socially
and economically marginalized, and these groups tend to lack social
cohesion, organization, and a credible public voice for the assertion
of rights.
- Reducing Vulnerability (Targets by 2003)
5.1 Does the country have strategies and programmes that address
factors that make individuals particularly vulnerable to HIV infection
including risky and unsafe sexual behaviour, injection drug use and
population movements?
The CSHA focuses on those most at risk. All programs must satisfy
this requirement. This includes all determinants of the epidemic.
Through the AIDS Community Action Plan (a funding program to support
the NGO sector) of the CSHA, and with the support and collaboration
of the provinces, territories and AIDS service organizations, the
CSHA has supported the development of a community-based response to
HIV/AIDS and ensured the inclusion of vulnerable populations in this
response.
Strategies to address the causes and effects of addiction are one
part of efforts to promote health and prevent illness. In September
2001, federal and provincial Ministers of Health released Reducing
the Harm Associated with Injection Drug Use, with recommendations
on how prevention, outreach, treatment and rehabilitation, research
and national leadership can reduce the problems that injection drug
use causes for individuals, their families and their communities.
To address risky sexual and injection-drug use behaviours, we are
attempting to understand where they occur geographically, the extent
to which they occur, and in which population groups they occur. This
information will be used to design, guide and evaluate effective prevention
programs. To obtain this information, a regular program of standardized
data collection has been established; this is the behavioural surveillance
component of second-generation surveillance.Risk behaviour surveillance among injecting drug users
Plans are under way to establish several sentinel sites across Canada
where standardized information on injecting and sexual behaviours
of injecting drug users (IDUs) can be collected annually to monitor
behaviours and help evaluate prevention programs.Risk behaviour surveillance among men who have sex with men
A similar program is being developed for this population, establishing
goals and mechanisms for collecting baseline and ongoing data on key
sexual behaviours as a means of second-generation surveillance.
Since the beginning of the HIV/AIDS crisis, researchers have noted
an epidemiological link between HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted
diseases. With the interrelationship of HIV and STDs becoming more
recognized, focusing on STD prevention can be considered a second-generation
approach to HIV prevention. Early detection and treatment of sexually
transmitted infections (STIs) is an important strategy in HIV prevention.Enhanced surveillance of Canadian street youth
Through surveillance of sexual risk behaviour, HIV and other STIs
in street youth, targeted interventions and harm reduction programs
are being developed.STIs in Aboriginal populations
A plan of action has been developed involving the provinces and territories
to address the high rates of STIs in this disadvantaged population.
Aboriginal Peoples
Given their status with respect to a range of determinants of health,
Aboriginal people have been identified as a population with greater
vulnerability to HIV. In addition, some recent studies have shown
that among the injection drug users in urban areas, a large proportion
are Aboriginal people. Many Aboriginal people move back and forth
from cities to their home communities or to other cities. Risky behaviours
such as unsafe sexual practices increase their vulnerability.
As described throughout this report, no one jurisdiction has responsibility
for all health programming for all Aboriginal people. Provinces provide
health services for Metis and non-status First Nations persons living
off reserves and Inuit who live away from their communities. Health
Canada provides health promotion for all Canadians, including these
groups. The First Nations and Inuit Health Branch mandate is to provide
health services and health promotion for First Nations people living
on reserves and for Inuit living in their communities.
The jurisdictional situation can be a barrier to reaching vulnerable
people among these populations. However, most regional Aboriginal
HIV/AIDS strategies are finding ways to address this issue by involving
the relevant jurisdictions in their strategy development. The National
Aboriginal Strategy will also be identifying the roles and responsibilities
of each jurisdiction to ensure gaps and duplication are reduced.
Inmates in Federal Correctional Facilities
Correctional Service Canada provides education to offenders on HIV/AIDS
and has a harm-reduction approach to dealing with high-risk behaviour
(provision of condoms, dental dams, lubricants, and bleach for cleaning
injection-drug paraphernalia). CSC provides methadone to opioid-addicted
offenders who can benefit from the methadone program, thus decreasing
sharing and injecting behaviours and reducing the transmission of
blood-borne pathogens. CSC participates in discharge planning for
inmates on any complex medical regime such as methadone or anti-retroviral
treatment to ensure there are no breaks in the treatment program.
Referrals for support in the community are arranged before release.
5.2 Do existing strategies, policies and programmes recognize
the importance of:
(a) The family in reducing vulnerability?
(b) Youth-friendly information, sexual
education and counselling services?
(c) Cultural, religious and ethical factors?
Yes. The CSHA, through its policy directions, goals and more recently
established national directions, addresses vulnerability and is in
the process of translating this into national strategic action. Canada
has a long history of community-driven definitions of vulnerability.
This has resulted in programs designed specifically by and for members
of various ethnic communities, youth and those with families, no matter
how defined.
5.2.a The family in reducing vulnerability
Health Canada has worked with government and non-governmental partners
to develop family-oriented resources, such as workshops where parents
can learn to talk with their children about healthy sexuality, including
STI prevention, contraception and healthy relationships.
Programs at Correctional Service Canada are developed with family
in mind, knowing that most offenders, upon release, will return to
their support structure, whether formal family or not. Offenders are
encouraged to maintain family ties during incarceration especially.
![*](/web/20061211042810im_/http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/images/ahc-asc/arrow_up.gif) 5.2.b Youth-friendly information, sexual education and
counselling services
Health Canada is one of several partners responsible for producing
internet-based sexual education materials. The Sexual Education
Gateway provides quick and easy access for educators to reliable
resources through a catalogue with links to more than 400 educational
resources and lesson plans for sexual health education. The information
is presented by topic and organized by grade level and resource type.
WebQuests are guided assignments that introduce students to
learning concepts while linking with reliable, factual and responsible
Internet sites.
Health Canada published the Canadian Guidelines for Sexual Health
Education in 1994 to guide individuals, professionals and agencies
working in this area; it also offers direction on developing policy
and programs. The Guidelines are being updated in 2002.
Health Canada recently consulted with NGO representatives and other
experts on future directions in the area of sexual health education.
One of the early outcomes of this consultation was a research document
that supports the need for sexual education in schools.
5.2.c Cultural, religious and ethical factors
The Canadian Guidelines for Sexual Health Education articulate
a set of common principles that encompass and respect diversity in
society.
The Sexual Education Gateway described earlier provides guidance
to educators on how to teach sexual health education with sensitivity
to and respect for differing cultural and religious backgrounds.
Some research is under way in Canada on the specific HIV issues related
to populations from endemic countries.
The First Nations and Inuit Health Branch supports a community-based
approach to health programs and services that allows for culturally
relevant initiatives. First Nations and Inuit communities value family
and youth. Hence community-based programs recognize the importance
of family and youth when dealing with health issues such as HIV/AIDS.
Community-based HIV/AIDS initiatives include family support groups,
youth groups, involvement of youth and elders in broadcasting healthy
lifestyle choices, development of youth- and culturally appropriate
teaching tools, and peer education.
With respect to the corrections system, offenders are encouraged to
maintain ties with a religious community during incarceration. Correctional
Service Canada employs Aboriginal elders to provide religious/cultural
guidance to Aboriginal offenders. In addition, representatives of
religious organizations have access to the institutions through a
range of programs. CSC includes a chaplaincy division and employs
chaplains serving all institutions.
5.3 Please note any problems or constraints encountered in
developing strategies and programmes to reduce vulnerability.
The current challenge is to develop a national approach to issues
of vulnerability. The CSHA is now defining this national perspective,
although many issues of vulnerability, including homophobia, strategies
for Aboriginal peoples, and programs for injection drug users have
been addressed.
Constraints encountered in developing strategies and programs to reduce
vulnerability among Aboriginal peoples include lack of training and
capacity; limited resources; and lack of relevant research for these
populations, including research to look at vulnerable segments within
the so-called vulnerable populations, as not all Aboriginal people
are necessarily vulnerable.
- Children Orphaned and Made Vulnerable by HIV/AIDS (Targets by
2003)
6.1 Does the country have a national policy and strategy
to provide a supportive social environment for orphans or children
infected and affected by HIV/AIDS in order to ensure enrolment in
school, access to shelter, nutrition, health and social services?
Yes. All children are entitled to school, shelter, nutrition,
health and social services.
Discrimination against children with HIV/AIDS appears to have abated,
and access to all programs and services appears to be in place.
The federal Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development
and the provinces have responsibility for social services for Aboriginal
populations, including the provision of supportive environments for
orphaned children irrespective of the reason they are orphaned.
6.2 Please note any problems or constraints encountered in developing
a national policy for orphans.
Canada does not appear to have a significant number of orphans
as a result of AIDS.
- Alleviating Social and Economic Impact (Targets by 2003)
7.1 Has the economic and social impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic
in the country been evaluated and multisectoral strategies developed
that address the impact at individual, family, community and national
level?
Yes. The last assessment of the economic burden of HIV/AIDS
was completed in 1997. A new one will be prepared beginning in 2002.
This will feed all existing strategies and mechanisms.
However, the economic and social impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic among
First Nations and Inuit specifically has not been evaluated. Constraints
include lack of resources, both human and financial.
7.2 Is a national legal and policy framework that protects
the rights of people living with and affected by HIV/AIDS in the workplace
in place?
Yes. The human and constitutional rights described earlier
(question 4.1) apply to the rights of people living with HIV/AIDS
in the workplace.
7.3 Please note any problems or constraints encountered with
respect to undertaking social and economic analysis and developing
a policy framework for AIDS in the workplace.
A national AIDS-in-the-workplace policy has not been seen
as necessary. Legislation is already in place to deal with discrimination
in the workplace, including discrimination related to HIV/AIDS.
- Research and Development
8.1 Has there been an increase in national investment
in HIV/AIDS related research and development?
Yes. Since the initiation of the CSHA in May 1998 there has
been an increase in the national investment in HIV/AIDS-related research.
Fostering scientific advancements is a priority under the CSHA, which
provides annual funding of $13.15 million for research within Health
Canada and for extramural research at universities, hospitals and
other research institutions. These funds, along with the additional
investments they leverage from other stakeholders, are an integral
part of Canada's response to HIV/AIDS. Although the contribution to
research from the CSHA has not increased since 1998-99, research investments
have increased from national funding sources such as the Canadian
Institutes of Health Research and with the creation of new national
research funding programs, including the Canada Foundation for Innovation,
Genome Canada and Canada Research Chairs. The accompanying table shows
total financial commitment to HIV/AIDS research in Canada since the
CSHA was established, including national funding programs that operate
independently of the CSHA.
Federal HIV/AIDS Research Investment
|
1998-99
|
1999-00
|
2000-01
|
2001-02
|
2002-031
|
Total
|
Biomedical / Clinical Stream (3)
|
5,300
|
4,600
|
4,600
|
4,600
|
4,600
|
23,700
|
Health Services / Population Health Stream (3)
|
2,425
|
2,425
|
2,425
|
2,425
|
2,425
|
12,125
|
Canadian HIV Trials Network (3)
|
3,200
|
3,200
|
3,200
|
3,200
|
3,200
|
16,000
|
Community-Based Research
|
1,000
|
1,000
|
1,000
|
1,000
|
1,000
|
5,000
|
Aboriginal Research Program
|
800
|
800
|
800
|
800
|
800
|
4,000
|
Health Canada
|
1,125
|
1,125
|
1,125
|
1,125
|
1,125
|
5,625
|
CSHA Total
|
13,850
|
13,150
|
13,150
|
13,150
|
13,150
|
66,450
|
Canadian Institutes of Health Research (2)
|
896
|
2,798
|
3,740
|
4,800
|
5,000
|
17,234
|
Canada Research Chairs Program
|
na
|
na
|
400
|
1,175
|
1,400
|
2,975
|
Canadian Network for Vaccines and Immunotherapeutics (4)
|
na
|
na
|
1,432
|
1,378
|
1,369
|
4,179
|
Canada Foundation for Innovation(5)
|
896
|
3,655
|
373
|
1,927
|
0
|
6,851
|
na = Not applicable.
![*](/web/20061211042810im_/http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/images/ahc-asc/arrow_up.gif)
- Amounts in 2002-2003 are estimates and are subject to change depending
on amounts actually spent by end of fiscal year.
- The Medical Research Council's commitment (inherited by CIHR) was
at least $10 million over 5 years beginning in 1998-99. CIHR's commitment
is at least $3.5 million per year for five years beginning in 2001-2002.
- CSHA funding administered by Canadian Institutes of Health Research.
- Approximate figures on how much CANVAC is spending on HIV vaccine
research (provided by CANVAC).
- The amounts in this table reflect CFI's contribution to total eligible
project costs. On average, the CFI contributes 40%. The institutions
secure the remaining 60% from funding partners in the public, private
and voluntary sectors. The amounts in each fiscal year reflect the fiscal
year in which the award was approved. Amounts do not reflect
funds disbursed in each fiscal year.
8.2 Have efforts been made to encourage the development of:
- National research infrastructure?
- Laboratory capacity?
- Improved surveillance systems?
- Data collection, processing and dissemination?
- Training of basic and clinical research, social scientists,
health-care providers and technicians?
- Human resources?
8.2.a National research infrastructure
Yes. Please see (b), below.
8.2.b Laboratory capacity
Yes. Health Canada's National HIV and Retrovirology Laboratories
provide national and international resource and reference services
in clinical HIV laboratory sciences for the purpose of improving
the health of individuals living with HIV/AIDS. This is accomplished
through the provision of national and international quality assurance
programs for HIV immunology, serology and viral load testing and
as well as through the development, evaluation and transfer of
technologies for HIV diagnosis and clinical monitoring to national
and international partners.
The National HIV and Retrovirology Laboratories in collaboration
with Canadian HIV Strain and Drug Resistance Surveillance Program
carry out the molecular analysis of HIV-strain and drug-resistant
variants in Canada as well as the development of bioinformatic
software required for molecular epidemiological analysis of the
HIV epidemic.
The National HIV and Retrovirology Laboratories also provide reference-service
testing, expertise and guidance to provincial public health, hospital
and blood-screening laboratories as well as to international partners
for the correct and timely diagnosis of HIV infections.
The National HIV and Retrovirology Laboratories provide laboratory
support for HIV and STD surveillance programs in the estimation
of national incidence and prevalence rates.
National stakeholders include the Health Canada's Population and
Public Health Branch, provincial public health laboratories, the
Canadian HIV Clinical Trials Network, hospitals and academic laboratories.
International stakeholders include the World Health Organization,
Pan American Health Organization, the U.S. National Institutes
of Health, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
UNAIDS, and various national health ministries in developing countries.
Funding for National HIV and Retrovirology Laboratory programs
is provided in part through the CSHA and the Health Canada Blood
Safety Program.
In addition, research infrastructure and laboratory capacity have
been developed through the Canada Foundation for Innovation, the
Networks of Centres of Excellence, the Canadian HIV Trials Network,
and Canadian Institutes of Health Research projects.
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) was established
in June 2000 with a mandate to create an integrated health-research
agenda that reflects the emerging needs of Canadians. CIHR is
Canada's premier funding agency for health research. On behalf
of the CSHA, CIHR administers $10.2 million to fund meritorious
research grants and research personnel awards across the entire
spectrum of HIV/AIDS research, including biomedical, clinical
sciences, and health system and services, as well as research
into the social, cultural and other factors that affect the health
of populations. CIHR will continue to contribute at least an additional
$3.5 million per year to HIV/AIDS research until 2006-07. In 2001-02,
CIHR committed an additional $4.8 million.![*](/web/20061211042810im_/http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/images/ahc-asc/arrow_up.gif)
CIHR has several programs that contribute to the development of
infrastructure and laboratory capacity, such as operating grants
to support research projects by an individual or small group of
investigators; equipment/maintenance grants to fund the purchase
of specific items or the maintenance of instruments required for
ongoing research; and group grants to support teams of three or
more investigators undertaking collaborative multidisciplinary
health research in Canadian research institutions or communities.
In 2001-02, CIHR supported 25 new HIV/AIDS research projects and
had a total of 91 ongoing HIV/AIDS research projects. Among the
91 research projects, CIHR funded 77 operating grants, 3 clinical
trials, 5 industry partnership grants, 1 project under the regional
partnerships program, 1 equipment/maintenance grant, 3 group grants,
and 1 tri-national clinical trial.
The CIHR administers funding for the Canadian HIV Trials Network
(CTN) to conduct scientifically and ethically sound clinical trials.
The CTN is a partnership of researchers and research institutes
committed to developing treatments, vaccines and a cure for HIV
and AIDS.
The Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) is an independent
corporation established by the Government of Canada in 1997. The
CFI's goal is to strengthen the capability of Canadian universities,
colleges, research hospitals, and other not-for-profit institutions
to carry out world-class research and technology development.
By investing in research infrastructure projects, the CFI supports
research excellence and helps strengthen research training at
institutions across Canada. CFI has invested more than $6 million
in HIV/AIDS research infrastructure.
Networks of Centres of Excellence are unique partnerships
among universities, industry, government and non-governmental
organizations aimed at turning Canadian research and entrepreneurial
talent into economic and social benefits for all Canadians. An
integral part of the federal government's Innovation Strategy,
these nation-wide, multidisciplinary and multisectoral research
partnerships connect excellent research with industrial know-how
and strategic investment.
The Canadian Network for Vaccines and Immunotherapeutics
(CANVAC) is one of 22 funded Networks of Centres of Excellence.
CANVAC is a network of leading Canadian scientists specializing
in the fields of immunology, virology and molecular biology. CANVAC's
researchers, along with their partners from the private, public
and government sectors, are developing vaccines to prevent and
treat chronic diseases such as cancer, HIV/AIDS, and hepatitis
C. They hope to trigger the body's immune system to protect against
these life-threatening diseases.
Genome Canada is the primary funding and information resource
relating to genomics in Canada. It is a not-for-profit corporation
dedicated to developing and implementing a national strategy in
genomics research for the benefit of Canadians. Genome Canada
has received $300 million from the federal government to establish
five research centres across the country. To date Genome Canada
has approved two large-scale research projects related to HIV/AIDS
for a total contribution of approximately $10.3 million.
8.2.c Improved surveillance systems
Yes. The Division of HIV/AIDS Epidemiology and Surveillance in
at the Centre for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control has
an HIV/AIDS Surveillance Unit responsible for publishing semi-annual
reports and for conducting specific analyses on the changing aspects
of the HIV epidemic. As well, in collaboration with the Centre's
Division of Retrovirus Surveillance in the Centre, the HIV/AIDS
Surveillance Unit works to improve the quality and completeness
of surveillance data. For example:
National HIV/AIDS surveillance meetings
In March 2001 a national surveillance meeting addressed data transfer
and quality issues for the national HIV/AIDS surveillance system.
The meeting was attended by provincial and territorial representatives
and community groups, in addition to staff of the Centre for Infectious
Disease Prevention and Control. Issues were identified and working
groups were struck to develop solutions and to improve the system.
Collaboration with surveillance experts from other developed
countries
The Division of HIV/AIDS Epidemiology and Surveillance participates
regularly in meetings and workshops on surveillance with officials
from other developed countries, including the Unite States (CDC),
United Kingdom (Public Health Laboratory Service), Australia,
and a number of European countries. These are good opportunities
to share findings and explore ideas for system improvements.![*](/web/20061211042810im_/http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/images/ahc-asc/arrow_up.gif)
Canadian HIV Strain and Drug Resistance Surveillance Program
This relatively new program collects blood samples from all individuals
newly diagnosed with HIV across Canada and analyzes them for HIV
strain type and genetic characteristics of primary antiretroviral
drug resistance.
8.2.d Data collection, processing and dissemination
The Division of HIV/AIDS Epidemiology and Surveillance provides
technical and financial support for targeted studies on HIV epidemiology
in areas where there are data gaps not filled by existing surveillance
systems or by externally funded academic research projects. Data
on HIV in Canada are also synthesized from a variety of sources,
analyzed, published in reports and scientific journals, and presented
at national and international conferences. For example:
HIV/AIDS Epi Updates
This annual publication comprises a series of 15 short Epi Updates,
each of which describes a certain aspect of the HIV epidemic in
Canada.
Inventory of HIV incidence and prevalence studies in Canada
This publication lists all studies that report any HIV incidence
or prevalence data pertaining to Canada. Concise descriptions
of sample size, study methods and data interpretation are included.
Guide to HIV/AIDS epidemiology and surveillance terms
This publication, produced in collaboration with the Canadian
AIDS Society, is intended to help community members better understand
epidemiology and surveillance terms. As a result, communities
will be better able to use epidemiology and surveillance data
for programming and policy making and to advise the Division on
how to make surveillance data more relevant to their needs.
8.2.e Training of basic and clinical research, social scientists,
health-care providers and technicians
Training opportunities have been established through CIHR Research
Personnel Awards, the CSHA Community-Based Research Capacity-Building
Program, and the Aboriginal Capacity-Building Program.
CIHR administers funds for meritorious research personnel awards
across the entire spectrum of HIV/AIDS research, including biomedical,
clinical sciences, health systems and services, and the social,
cultural and other factors that affect the health of populations.
To maintain a leadership role, attract bright new people to the
field, and advance the science of HIV/AIDS, CIHR invests continuously
in research capacity, for example, through research training and
salary awards. In 2001-02, 37 HIV/AIDS researchers received training
awards from CIHR.
In addition, across Canada, an estimated 210 graduate students
and 70 post-doctoral fellows are training as HIV/AIDS researchers
through support from CIHR research grants.
Special efforts are also under way to build Canada's capacity
for community-based HIV/AIDS research. The Community-Based
Research Capacity-Building Program and the Aboriginal Capacity-Building
Program for Community-Based Research are four-year initiatives
funded through the CSHA that offer scholarships and other skills-building
opportunities. Scholarships are available to graduate students
in master's and doctoral programs who conduct community-based
research on HIV/AIDS as part of their degree requirements. As
of July 2001, a total of six scholarships - four for community-based
capacity building and two for Aboriginal research capacity building
- had been awarded.
8.2.f Human resources
Health Canada has a study under way to evaluate the state of human
resources in the sector. Further work to address problems and
deficiencies will be undertaken once study results are clear.
Addressing human resource issues is one of the strategic directions
of the CSHA.
Human resources for the conduct of HIV/AIDS research in Canada
are supported by CIHR salary awards, the Canada Research Chairs
program, and support for technicians and research assistants from
research grants.
CIHR salary awards are provided to independent investigators who
have made outstanding contributions and have demonstrated leadership
in their field. In 2001-02, 16 investigators received salary awards
from CIHR that allowed them to devote more of their time to HIV/AIDS
research projects.
The Government of Canada established the Canada Research Chairs
Program in 2000. Its key objective is to enable Canadian universities,
together with their affiliated research institutes and hospitals,
to achieve the highest levels of research excellence, to become
world-class research centres in the global knowledge-based economy.
The secondary objectives of the Program are to:
- strengthen research excellence in Canada and increase Canada's
research capacity by attracting and retaining excellent researchers
in Canadian universities;
- strengthen the training of highly qualified personnel through
research;
- improve universities' capacity to generate and apply new knowledge;
and
- optimize the use of research resources through institutional
strategic planning and inter-institutional and intersectoral collaboration.
![*](/web/20061211042810im_/http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/images/ahc-asc/arrow_up.gif) Eight HIV/AIDS researchers are supported by the Canada Research
Chairs program at present.
8.3 What measures have been taken to ensure that research protocols
for the investigation of HIV-related treatment are ethical and includes
antiretroviral therapies and vaccines are evaluated by independent
committees of ethics?
In signing an application to the Canadian Institutes of Health
Research, applicants and administrators give an undertaking that any
research carried out with funds from CIHR will respect all CIHR requirements
for the ethical conduct of research as expressed in policy documents.
In general, the following policy statements place primary responsibility
on researchers and require the institutions in which research is conducted
to have in place the monitoring and review committees defined in the
guidelines. CIHR reserves the right to deny or withdraw funding if
the investigator or the institution does not comply with the following
guidelines.
- Research involving human beings
Any research involving human subjects must be approved by
the appropriate local review committee, established and operating
in accordance with the relevant CIHR statements of policy - including
the Tri-Council Policy Statement: Ethical Conduct for Research
Involving Humans and CIHR's recently released guidelines for
stem cell research, Human Pluripotent Stem Cell Research: Guidelines
for CIHR-Funded Research - before
research begins. The institution is responsible for withholding
CIHR funds from the researcher(s) until the required approvals
have been given.
- Research involving animals
Any research involving animals must be approved by the appropriate
local review committee, established and operating in accordance
with the relevant Care and Use of Experimental Animals
and Canadian Council of Animal Care statements of policy
before the research is started. The institution is responsible
for withholding CIHR funds from the researcher(s) until the required
approvals have been given.
8.4 Please note any problems or constraints in increasing investments
in research.
The total budget for the CSHA has not increased since it was
launched in 1998. Conflicting demands on the budget have not allowed
research funding from the CSHA budget to increase.
- HIV/AIDS in Conflict and Disaster Affected Regions
9.1 Does the country have a national policy/strategy that
incorporate HIV/AIDS prevention, care and treatment into programmes
that respond to emergency situations?
No. However the CSHA has mechanisms to identify new and emerging
issues and the capacity to respond in any emergencies. The Federal/Provincial/Territorial
Advisory Committee on AIDS and the Ministerial Council on HIV/AIDS
have a mandate to identify issues of concern, including any emergency
situations. The Centre for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control
would identify emergencies and develop a plan of response.
9.2 Please note any problems or constraints encountered in
increasing investments in research.
None noted.
- Resources
10.1 Have national budgetary allocations for HIV/AIDS programmes
been increased and adequate allocations, including a line budget for
HIV/AIDS, made by all ministries and other relevant stakeholders?
Absolute figures for HIV/AIDS spending from all departments, agencies
and relevant stakeholders are not available for this report. Nor does
this report include expenditures by provincial or territorial governments.
Some federal departments and agencies, such as the Canadian International
Development Agency, the International Development Research Centre,
and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, have increased funding
for HIV/AIDS.
The budget for the CSHA has remained constant for 10 years.
Some provinces have increased expenditures for HIV/AIDS over the last
10 years, especially in response to increased prevalence, while other
provinces have not made specific budget allocations for HIV/AIDS.
The international collaboration component of the CSHA includes a commitment
to develop new strategies to ensure the appropriation of increased
resources for HIV/AIDS globally. Much of this work is done through
a multisectoral working group coordinated through Health Canada's
International Affairs Directorate (IAD).
The IAD conducted a survey of Canadian government departments/agencies,
non-governmental organizations and universities to determine the level
of Canada's involvement in the global response to the HIV/AIDS pandemic.
The results indicated that Canadian organizations are actively involved
in numerous HIV/AIDS projects throughout the world. These projects
covered a wide range of issues, including prevention, policy development,
counselling, training, epidemiology, evaluation, research and comprehensive
care, among others. The research showed that the international involvement
of Canadian organizations and agencies has led to a strengthening
of the domestic response to HIV/AIDS. Thus collaboration between the
IAD and non-governmental organizations on projects to promote and
facilitate international action in HIV/AIDS has the corollary effect
of increasing application of resources to HIV/AIDS domestically.
10.2 For donor countries: Have steps been taken towards meeting
the agreed international target of 0.7% of Gross National Product
as Official Development Assistance?
Yes. Canada remains committed to reaching the 0.7% of GNP
target. In the most recent federal budget (December 2001), international
assistance was increased by $1 billion over three years. Canada's
Prime Minister announced in Monterrey, that Canadian international
assistance will increase by at least 8% per year in the years to come,
which should result in doubling our current aid performance in eight
or nine years. This demonstrates Canada's commitment to increasing
our Official Development Assistance budget as our fiscal situation
permits. Canada has also committed to quadrupling Official Development
Assistance spending on HIV/AIDS between 2000 and 2005, from $20 million
to $80 million per year.
10.3 For donor countries: Have steps been taken towards meeting
the target of 0.15 - 0.20% of Gross National Product as Official Development
Assistance for least developed countries?
![*](/web/20061211042810im_/http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/images/ahc-asc/arrow_up.gif) Yes. Through Official Development Assistance, Canada is committed
to working with the poorest of the poor by focusing on four social
development priorities: health and nutrition; HIV/AIDS; basic education;
and child protection. Canada is increasing its international assistance
to Africa. The December 2001 budget provided an additional $500 million
in international assistance toward the G8's response to Africa's plan
to lift itself out of poverty; this will be a main focus of discussion
at the G8 Summit in Canada in June 2002. Canada is also working to
mainstream the four social development priorities in all international
assistance efforts in Africa.
- Follow-up
11.1 Have national mechanisms for follow-up been established,
such as scheduling of national reviews and establishing monitoring
systems?
Yes. A national direction-setting and work-planning process
involving multisectoral partners has been established for the CSHA.
As well, the CSHA has a clear monitoring and accountability process
with an evaluation cycle. Planning for implementation of the strategy
is undertaken by all multisectoral partners, consumers and professions.
The First Nations and Inuit Health Branch does not have its own national
review but is included in the CSHA's national review. However, all
community projects provide reports and workplans to their respective
regions. The regions in turn submit their reports to the national
office.
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research, led by the Institute of
Infection and Immunity, is developing a research priority-setting
mechanism that will include CIHR, Health Canada, HIV researchers and
other stakeholders. This mechanism will monitor current research priorities
for HIV/AIDS research and will develop strategic initiatives to respond
to these priorities.
- Recommendations
12.1 Please make recommendations on actions needed to make
rapid progress in implementing the UNGASS Declaration of Commitment
on HIV/AIDS.
Produce a report outlining the status of countries' responses
to the foregoing questions to enable inter-country communication on
policy and program development and implementation. Develop an evaluation
model that could be used to enhance national action and the ability
of countries to provide data.
As the country reports are not confidential, ask UNAIDS post all country
reports in a dedicated section of its website. This would give all
countries access to relevant detail that cannot be included in the
Secretary General's overall report and would serve to encourage us
all in our efforts to bring about change and to report on them comprehensively.
Consider producing country reports in a way that allows countries
to share not only basic information about their HIV/AIDS initiatives
and activities but also to share best practices and experiences with
various approaches.
Where the Declaration of Commitment has established target dates,
consider asking countries to submit information in a form that would
allow assessments of whether countries were meeting targets within
established timeframes.
Annex A
A Note on Canada's Health Care System
A brief overview of Canada's health care system may be helpful in understanding
Canada's domestic response to HIV/AIDS. For the most part the system is
a publicly financed and privately delivered system that is best described
as an interlocking set of ten provincial and three territorial health
insurance plans. Known to Canadians as Medicare, the system provides access
to universal coverage for medically necessary hospital, in-patient and
out-patient physician services.
This structure results from the constitutional assignment of jurisdiction
over most aspects of health care, including management and delivery of
health services, to the provincial order of government. The system is
referred to as a 'national' health insurance system in that all provincial
and territorial hospital and medical insurance plans are linked through
adherence to national principles set at the federal level.
Like other health care, programs and services related to HIV/AIDS care
and treatment are managed and delivered within each jurisdiction as appropriate
under this constitutional division of responsibilities.
Provinces and territories plan, finance and evaluate the provision of
hospital care, physician and allied health-care services, some aspects
of prescription drug care and public health.
The federal government's role involves setting and administering national
principles or standards for the health care system; assisting in the financing
of provincial health care services through fiscal transfers; and fulfilling
functions for which it is constitutionally responsible, such as providing
direct health service delivery to specific groups, including veterans,
First Nations people living on reserves, and Inuit living in Inuit communities.
Health Canada is the federal department responsible for helping the people
of Canada maintain and improve their health. The department is also active
in health protection, disease prevention and health promotion. In partnership
with provincial and territorial governments, non-governmental organizations
and health stakeholders, Health Canada provides national leadership to
develop health policy, promote disease prevention, reduce health and safety
risks, and enhance healthy living for all Canadians. Actions in these
areas include HIV prevention programs such as HIV testing and counselling,
needle-exchange programs, promotion of condom use, and programs aimed
at reducing vulnerability to HIV.
There is important interplay between the health services delivery system
and the health promotion and protection functions; both are supported
at the national, provincial, territorial and local level.
- Unless otherwise stated, all figures are in Canadian
dollar
- See Annex A, A Note on Canada's Health Care System
|