Research on HIV in women is under-represented, critical and urgently needed. In Canada, women are one of the fastest growing population groups at risk for HIV infection, now representing about 20 per cent of cases in Canada (40 per cent worldwide). Women living with HIV face different issues than men including unique complications of infection, sex-specific side effects from anti-HIV treatments, emotional and mental health support needs, as well as unique concerns around pregnancy.

The Women and HIV Research Program was launched in 2006 to focus on these clinical management issues. It is led by Dr. Mona Loutfy and Dr. Julie Maggi, both research scientists at WCRI. The program works in partnership with Maple Leaf Medical Clinic (MLMC), (MLMC), where Dr. Loutfy serves as research director. Program staff members include research coordinator Saira Mohammed and research assistant Joanna Wong.

The Women and HIV Research Program is committed to working collaboratively with:

• HIV+ women and affected communities
• HIV clinicians and caregivers
• Other research teams

Program investigators also work with others at WCRI such as those in the mental health program to design and test more holistic care for women. Dr. Loutfy has also collaborated extensively with anti-violence researchers at WCRI. She served as principal co-investigator of the HIV Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Study, a study which guided the implementation of a new program offering HIV risk counseling and optional preventative treatment to Ontario sexual assault survivors. Ongoing research initiatives of the Women and HIV Program focus on:

• The safe and effective use of antiretroviral therapy in women
• Pregnancy planning
• Mental health supports for HIV+ women
• The impact of co-infection such as other sexually transmitted infections on HIV in HIV+ women

Women and HIV: Program Staff

SAIRA MOHAMMED, BHE, MSC
Saira graduated with a bachelor of science in cell biology and genetics in 1997 and a bachelor of home economics specializing in food and nutrition in 1999 from the University of British Columbia. In 2006, she completed her master's of science in nutritional sciences from the University of Toronto. Currently, she works as a research coordinator for the Women and HIV Program at Women's College Research Institute. Saira has a strong interest in HIV research and is a member of the International AIDS Society.

Contact Information:
Phone: (416) 351-3732, ext. 2324
Fax: (416) 351-3746
Email: saira.mohammed@wchospital.ca

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