IMPROVING HPV PREVENTION AMONG CANADIAN ABORIGINAL PEOPLES: A KNOWLEDGE EXCHANGE AND TRANSLATION WORKSHOP

Objectives: In December 2008, a national workshop was hosted by the International Centre for Infectious Diseases (ICID) in Winnipeg, Canada in collaboration with its public health and Aboriginal partners to discuss human papillomavirus (HPV) issues affecting Aboriginal populations in Canada. Objectives of the HPV workshop were to (i.) share current information on HPV and related Aboriginal health issues; (2) identify research gaps and priorities; (3) identify vaccine implementation challenges and strategies for vaccination program improvement. Methods: From across Canada, 5o key stakeholders representing 24 different Aboriginal focused organizations attended a full-day workshop entitled "Improving HPV Prevention among Aboriginal Peoples." Twelve presentations on HPV and Aboriginal health issues were followed by breakout group discussions that addressed pre-set questions. Results: Three broad themes were discussed: understanding HPV, developing a population-level understanding of HPV and developing community understanding and program implementation. Outcomes from the workshop discussion included a list of 11 categories of key issues and priority needs for HPV research and programs. Conclusions: Issues affecting HPV prevention in Aboriginal communities are multifactorial and complex. Current efforts in prevention could be enhanced by making improvements in public understanding of HPV; building capacity and strengthening relationships between health professionals and Aboriginal community members; integrating HPV with other health issues affecting Aboriginal peoples; strengthening public health program services; conducting additional HPV research and surveillance; upgrading technological infrastructure; addressing database issues; establishing clear protocols for conducting research and surveillance in Aboriginal communities; providing multi-year funding; and taking a shared responsibility approach.