The Aboriginal Strategy on HIV/AIDS in Canada (ASHAC) is a project conducted by the Canadian Aboriginal AIDS Network (CAAN) to identify which areas of the HIV/AIDS epidemic need the most attention in Aboriginal communities across the country. Aboriginal people are disproportionately over represented among all new HIV/AIDS cases in Canada due to the substandard lifestyles they lead. More knowledge of HIV/AIDS issues and better access to effective programming are key to reducing the number of infections.

ASHAC follows the six goals set by the Canadian Strategy on HIV/AIDS (CSHA) that include prevention and care. But while finding a cure and producing effective vaccines and treatments are priorities of CSHA , the nine key areas identified by ASHAC are: coordination and technical support; community development, capacity building and training; prevention and education; sustainability, partnerships and collaboration; legal, ethical and human rights issues; engagement of Aboriginal groups with special needs; supporting broad-based Harm Reduction approaches; holistic care, treatment and support; and research and evaluation. With community needs defined, ASHAC can now focus on providing support for the implementation of necessary programs and services with these goals in mind.

© Canadian Aboriginal AIDS Network
6520 Salish Drive,
Vancouver BC, V6N 2C7
Ph: (604)266-7616
Fax: (604)266-7612
Toll Free: 1.888.285.2226