Detection of Trichomonas vaginalis, Giardia and Cryptosporidium spp. in Remote Indigenous Communities in Canada using a Point-of-Care Device

Abstract

The Indigenous population in Canada disproportionately faces a large number of infectious diseases, such as Trichomonas vaginalis (Trich), Giardia and Cryptosporidium spp. For example, in Alberta, the highest prevalence of Trich in Indigenous women was found at 10.1%, which is concerning, considering that Indigenous people constitute 3.8% of Canada’s population. Patient samples from remote Indigenous communities are currently sent to a central processing facility, which results in wait times of up to a month. This is worsened by a lack of access to full-time healthcare staff and clinics, along with the stigma of getting tested. The aim was to explore the current diagnosis and management strategies for Trich, Giardia and Cryptosporidium spp., along with issues faced in accessing primary healthcare in remote Indigenous communities. This was done to establish parameters for the development of a diagnostic device suitable for remote areas with resource constraints and cultural considerations. This investigation was done through a literature search and three structured interviews to obtain the perspectives of a healthcare worker, a researcher, and a member from Indigenous communities in Ontario. To meet the identified needs for a locally accessible, financially affordable, user-friendly, and rapid diagnostic device, a point-of-care device should be designed. This can ensure the diagnosis of various infectious diseases based on pathogen motility for patients of any sex, with or without symptoms. Understanding the current technologies available and gaps in access to healthcare can lead to the development of a suitable diagnostic device for a variety of resource-constrained communities.