Peer to peer education as a tool for prevention among youth.
Int Conf AIDS 2004 Jul 11-16; 15:(abstract no. C10011)
Ismail M RISE, Peshawar, Pakistan
Young people are facing a greater risk in Pakistan because of, the so called religious Assumptions. There is a common concept about piousness of Muslims. They strongly believe that HIV/AIDS is a disease of non Muslims, because God is punishing them for their beliefs. The religious political parties are very strong in the North West Frontier Province of Pakistan and they are in power in the province. They strongly oppose the young people to have access to clear and appropriate information about sexual-transmitted diseases. Therefore it is difficult and restricted for young people. Confidential HIV-testing and counseling to find out if they are infected is unavailable or not adapted. Sexual Orientation or behavior is concealed as a result of social, cultural, religious or legal prohibitions. RISE is combating the Situation focusing on: a. Promoting awareness among the adolescents and young people through peer to peer Education regarding HIV/ADIS and Sexually Transmitted infections. b. Mobilizing young activists to work as agents of change to combat discrimination against the people living with HIV/AIDS, by correcting misunderstandings about how HIV is transmitted and to get across that anyone can get infected. c. Promoting awareness about Reproductive, Sexual heath and Sexually Transmitted Infections among the young people by peer to peer education. d. Strengthening the capacity of young activists. e. Promote dialogue among young people about i Happy and Healthy Life. ii Peer to Peer Education. iii Good Decision Making. iv Reproductive Health. v HIV/AIDS and myths. vi STDs/HIV/AIDS and Prevention. Results of Peer to Peer Education: Frequently meetings. Trust building. Enjoy the company. Personal matters and Secrets can only be disclosed to friends. Getting easy support and help. Making Influenced each other. Discussion and getting information on sex matters/issues. Preventive measures adopted by young people.
Keywords: AEGIS, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, Sexual Behavior, Peer Group, HIV Infections, Counseling, Teaching, Infection, HIV Seropositivity, Behavior, Reproductive Medicine, Communication, Pakistan, Adolescent, Humans, Adolescence, prevention & control, organization & administration
