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World Hepatitis Day Art Contest

The Canadian Association for Global Health (CAGH), with support from Gilead Sciences, successfully organized the World Hepatitis Day Art Contest for incarcerated individuals in correctional facilities across Canada. This contest was delivered in partnership with the Correctional Service Canada (CSC) and Provincial Correctional Services in Prince Edward Island, British Columbia, and Nova Scotia.

Approximately 600,000 Canadians live with viral hepatitis, many of whom are unaware of their condition. Untreated hepatitis can lead to liver failure, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. People who are incarcerated (PWAI) are identified as a priority population for HCV care, as they are 40 times more likely to be exposed to HCV than the general population. Low inmate awareness of HCV infection is a major barrier to HCV screening and care in Canadian correctional institutions. The World Hepatitis Day (WHD) Art Contest serves as a campaign to raise awareness of hepatitis and its impact and encourage people who are incarcerated to learn about their hepatitis status by getting tested. This year’s theme, "We are not waiting" aimed to raise awareness of the global burden of viral hepatitis and to influence real change.

The contest received an overwhelming response from inmates, indicating a strong engagement in health awareness. Submissions were reviewed by a panel from Ontario Positive Asians (OPA+) and CAGH. Ontario Positive Asians (OPA+) is an independent, peer-driven network for self-identified Asians living with HIV/AIDS (APHA) in Ontario, providing a culturally safe space for members of this diverse, vibrant, and culturally rich community.

CAGH is pleased to showcase the winning entries from the 2023 contest, highlighting the artistic talents of the participants and emphasizing the importance of continued efforts in the fight against viral hepatitis.