Every year in February, we mark Sexual Health Week in Canada to raise awareness and promote resources to improve sexual health. This year's theme "Sexual Health is for Everyone" emphasizes that sexual health is an important part of our overall health, at all ages. We also know that 2SLGBTQI+, Indigenous, Black and racialized communities, people with disabilities, immigrants and migrants, as well as women and youth, are all underserved groups, and often lack access to health information.
Sexual health is directly related to our mental and sexual wellbeing, the development of our bodies, and our ability to have healthy relationships.
Sexual health also means being informed, having a positive and respectful approach to sexuality, understanding consent and having the right information to make informed decisions about our bodies.
Many Canadians are still hesitant about accessing sexual health services because of shame fueled by stigma and discrimination. To improve access to sexual and reproductive health care support, information, and services for underserved populations, the Government of Canada funds community organizations to support activities such as creating inclusive training materials for sexual and reproductive health care providers, carrying out public awareness activities, and providing travel and logistical support to individuals accessing abortion services.
Sexually transmitted and blood borne infections (STBBI) are preventable, treatable, and in many cases, curable, however they continue to be a significant public health concern and rates of new cases are on the rise.
Our government wants to change that. During the 24th annual International AIDS Conference in August 2022, Canada endorsed the global Undetectable equals Untransmittable (U=U) declaration. U=U is based on scientific evidence that shows HIV is not passed on during sex when a person living with HIV is receiving treatment and the amount of the virus in their blood remains very low. U=U is important because it challenges stigma and discrimination around HIV, and it also encourages people to get tested and treated, therefore improving the chances of preventing HIV transmission.
We are also concerned about the significant increase in syphilis cases identified over the past decade. Although curable with antibiotics, if left untreated syphilis can cause serious health problems, with the most severe symptoms affecting the heart, brain, and nervous system. Untreated syphilis can also be passed on to a fetus during pregnancy and can result in life-long health problems for the infant. The Government of Canada recently launched a Syphilis awareness campaign targeting those living in regions where the rates of infection are highest including Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut. The ads, targeted to the general public and health care providers encourage those who are sexually active to make syphilis testing a part of routine health care.
Anyone can reduce their risk of STBBI by using barriers such as condoms and dental dams, getting tested regularly if they are sexually active with new or multiple partners, and completing treatment for infections when prescribed by a health professional.
During Sexual Health Week, let's reflect on, and become aware of, how sexual health is part of our overall health. Learning about sexual health is an important and necessary part of our wellbeing.
The Honourable Mark Holland, P.C., M.P.
The Honourable Ya'ara Saks, P.C., M.P.
The Honourable Marci Ien, P.C., M.P
