AEGiS-15IAC: Addressing risk and protective factors in HIV transmission through adolescent sexual health programme: an intervention model.

15th International AIDS Conference


Bangkok, Thailand - July 11-16, 2004

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Addressing risk and protective factors in HIV transmission through adolescent sexual health programme: an intervention model.

Int Conf AIDS 2004 Jul 11-16; 15:(abstract no. C10373)

Kole SK, Nanda AR
Program Associate (Programs), Population Foundation of India, New Delhi, India

ISSUES: Adolescents and youth comprise the most vulnerable group for HIV transmission since 50% of total new infection occurs in the age group of 15-29 years. This is because, the 'risk factors' play a significant role in determining the chances of youth being infected; whereas the role of 'protective factors' are gradually weakening in spite of a general decline in the age at puberty, rising age at marriage and early initiation of sexual activity. In the absence of any protective factors, the risk factors will only determine the probability of youth being infected by HIV. Hence, risk & protective factors need to be addressed simultaneously through an integrated programme towards reducing their vulnerability. DescriptionPFI is implementing an integrated programme with 2 NGOs targeting 20,000 adolescents & youth adapting a dual strategy. Our program aims at reducing risk factors by giving scientific information/awareness on HIV/AIDS, sexuality, and BCC training through schools and peer groups. Simultaneously, it addresses enhancing protective factors through counselling, career opportunities, developing life-skills, promoting condom use, treatment and management of STIs, and addressing values, marriage, and parenthood. Lessons LearnedProject is well accepted in the community that adapts a livelihood approach and superimposes a sexual health component on it. Our model is effective for reaching adolescents and their parents considering the country's cultural sensitivity towards sexual health issues. Livelihood approach enhanced the protective factors whereas sexual health approach reduced the risk factors. RecommendationsIndia has no government program addressing adolescent sexual health and risk factors in STI/HIV transmission. A few programs having potential towards enhancing protective factors, work in isolation. Holistic approach is needed to address risk & protective factors together by introducing adolescent sexual health services in primary health care.

Keywords: AEGIS, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, HIV Seropositivity, Sexual Behavior, HIV Infections, Risk Factors, Sexuality, Counseling, Health Services Needs and Demand, Adolescent Behavior, Adolescent, Humans, Adolescence, transmission, organization & administration, education, methods

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C10373

Copyright © 2004 - International AIDS Society (IAS). Reproduction of this abstract (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through the IAS.