The International Workshop on HIV and Hepatitis Observational Databases (hereinafter referred to as “IWHOD” or “the Workshop”) is an annual workshop run to promote both knowledge generation and knowledge transfer in the use of observational databases. The multidisciplinary Workshop, bringing together clinicians, epidemiologists and methodologists, was established 25 years ago to optimize the use of HIV cohort data in research originating primarily from Europe, North America, and Australia. It has since expanded to include cohort research from Africa, Asia, and South and Central America. While originally focusing on HIV, IWHOD has expanded to include presentations using observational data from other research areas related to HIV and infectious diseases where observational methods are used. These include viral hepatitis, other sexually transmitted and blood borne infections, PrEP, TB, and COVID-19 given similar scientific questions and methodologies.

The IWHOD Scientific Committee is responsible for developing the scientific focus and program content for the annual Workshop, selecting speakers and co-chairs, conducting peer review of abstracts submitted and identifying potential funders.