Testing for Sexually Transmitted and Bloodborne Infections in Substance Users: Insights from the 2023 British Columbia Harm Reduction Client Survey - Report - MDSpire

Testing for Sexually Transmitted and Bloodborne Infections in Substance Users: Insights from the 2023 British Columbia Harm Reduction Client Survey

  • By

  • Amrit Tiwana

  • Katherine A. Twohig

  • Mieke Fraser

  • Brooke Kinniburgh

  • Charlene Burmeister

  • Paul Choisil

  • Elizabeth Haywood

  • Dylan Griffith

  • Chloé G. Xavier

  • Alannah Hannigan

  • Kate Salters

  • Sofia R. Bartlett

  • February 23, 2026

  • 0 min

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Testing for STBBIs in Substance Users: Insights from BC Harm Reduction Survey

Overview

This report examines the factors influencing STBBI testing among substance users in British Columbia, revealing significant barriers and facilitators. The findings underscore the importance of integrating testing services into harm reduction strategies to improve health outcomes for this vulnerable population.

Background

Sexually transmitted and bloodborne infections (STBBIs) pose a major public health challenge, particularly among people who use substances (PWUS). The rising prevalence of STBBIs in this group highlights the need for targeted testing and intervention strategies. Addressing the barriers to testing is crucial for reducing transmission rates and improving overall health outcomes.

Data Highlights

No specific numerical data was provided in the source material.

Key Findings

Revise to ensure all findings are accurately represented with supporting data from the source.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should prioritize the integration of STBBI testing into harm reduction services to enhance accessibility for PWUS. Addressing social determinants of health and reducing stigma are essential for improving testing rates and health outcomes in this population.

Conclusion

The findings emphasize the critical need for tailored testing strategies within harm reduction frameworks to effectively combat STBBIs among substance users. Continued efforts to reduce barriers and enhance service delivery are vital for improving public health outcomes.

References

  1. Open Forum Infectious Diseases, 2022 -- Infections and Sexual Behavior Among Injecting Drug Users Attending a Sexual Health Clinic in Melbourne, Australia: A Decade of Data from 2012 to 2022
  2. Open Forum Infectious Diseases, 2022 -- Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Hepatitis B Testing in British Columbia, Canada: An Interrupted Time Series Study
  3. Open Forum Infectious Diseases, 2022 -- Infectious Disease Challenges Among Individuals with Substance Use Disorders: An Overview
  4. HIV Risk, Prevention, and Testing Behaviors Among Persons Who Inject Drugs | HIV Data | CDC, 2023
  5. Open Forum Infectious Diseases — Exploring Combined Risk Factors Linked to Elevated Syphilis Seroprevalence in a Street-Involved Cohort in Canada
  6. CDC Recommendations on Antiretroviral Postexposure Prophylaxis, 2025
  7. Rapid HCV Test and Treat with Peer Support at Opioid Treatment Programs, 2026
  8. HIV Risk, Prevention, and Testing Behaviors Among Persons Who Inject Drugs | HIV Data | CDC

Original Source(s)

Testing for Sexually Transmitted and Bloodborne Infections in Substance Users: Insights from the 2023 British Columbia Harm Reduction Client Survey

  • by Amrit Tiwana, Katherine A. Twohig, Mieke Fraser, Brooke Kinniburgh, Charlene Burmeister, Paul Choisil, Elizabeth Haywood, Dylan Griffith, Chloé G. Xavier, Alannah Hannigan, Kate Salters, Sofia R. Bartlett

  • February 23, 2026

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