Learning from mpox: Community-Based Mixed Methods Research to Support Intersectional and Stigma-Informed Approaches to Pandemic Preparedness for Gay, Bisexual, Queer, and Other Men who Have Sex with Men in Canada

Mpox (formerly referred to as monkeypox) was declared a public health emergency of international concern in July 2022. The overarching objectives of our interdisciplinary research team are to: Understand mpox experiences and perspectives of diverse gay, bisexual, queer, and other men who have sex with men (GBQM) across Canada, including disease progression, vaccine confidence, health-seeking behaviours, and the impact of mpox on social and sexual lives (including, albeit not limited to, GBQM diagnosed with mpox); (2) Explore challenges in responding to, controlling, and mitigating the impact of mpox from the perspective of health system stakeholders; and (3) Implement an integrated knowledge translation strategy that engages community and public health partners to develop and mobilize intersectional and stigma-informed approaches to pandemic preparedness for GBQM communities. Our proposed population-focused research is crucial given that GBQM have historically experienced significant disparities in physical, mental, and sexual health, amplified by systemic marginalization and high barriers to healthcare and were the communities most impacted by mpox in Canada. This CIHR grant provides a unique opportunity to leverage established research infrastructure and address all three objectives of the funding opportunity through embedding mpox research within ongoing community-based research with GBQM in Canada. Our study design, sampling strategy, study population, and other interdisciplinary methods are distinct strengths of our proposed study. Our capable team includes researchers, clinicians, and knowledge users who share an interest and expertise in HIV prevention, COVID-19, and mpox research for GBQM. The proposed mpox research will provide important information to both understand the mpox response and the experiences of GBQM and health system stakeholders, and to develop and mobilize interdisciplinary approaches to pandemic preparedness for marginalized communities.