Empowering communities: a case study of integrated knowledge translation in the A/C study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Community-Based Participatory Research
• HIV/AIDS Research

Background:

• Black Canadians represent 5% of Ontario's population but over 20% of new HIV diagnoses.
• The A/C Study was initiated to investigate factors contributing to HIV risk and vulnerability in Black communities.
• The study aimed to inform HIV prevention and care policies and practices for Black populations in Ontario.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine factors augmenting HIV risk and vulnerability among Black Canadians.
• To inform policy and practice for HIV prevention and care tailored to Black communities.
• To integrate knowledge translation (KT) throughout the research process.

Main Methods:

• Employed a community-led, cross-sectional design adhering to principles of self-determination.
• Utilized an integrated knowledge translation (IKT) approach with community members integral to all research stages.
• Focused on building partnerships and trust with stakeholders and community members.

Main Results:

• Generated diverse KT outputs including community reports, fact sheets, presentations, and digital products.
• Facilitated community-led World Cafés and a research summit to interpret findings and develop action plans.
• Published seven peer-reviewed manuscripts with more in progress; study data available upon request.

Conclusions:

• Active community involvement yielded a range of culturally appropriate and responsive KT products.
• Emphasized the critical role of community partnership at all research stages.
• Highlighted the IKT approach as a case study for equity-focused implementation.