Chinese immigrants attitudes toward HIV and HIV prevention interventions in metro Vancouver: Is there a disconnect?

Chinese immigrants are populating Metro Vancouver in large numbers; they bring with them values, beliefs and attitudes developed in China. Attitudes towards HIV are steeped in beliefs about taboo topics, at risk groups of people and the concept of face. Canadian school-based HIV prevention interventions do not consider cultural beliefs and are not relevant to most Chinese immigrants. Secondary research was undertaken to develop an understanding of Chinese attitudes toward HIV, Canadian HIV prevention interventions and the attitudes of Chinese immigrants living in “western” countries. Reviewing Chinese attitudes towards HIV and Canadian HIV prevention interventions illustrated a disconnect between the interventions and the intended audience: Chinese immigrants. Interventions informed by additional research and the involvement of Chinese immigrant families are needed to reach out to Chinese immigrants.