Elements of an Effective HIV Prevention Program

By Sharon Moalem, MD, PhD

Effective HIV Prevention Programs

• Though there are numerous different approaches to organizing and operating HIV prevention programs, research conducted has shown that those programs bearing successful results have certain elements in common.

• These effective programs, which work on both an individual and community level, are comprehensive and are developed centering on scientifically viable strategies.

Key factors include:

-Involved planning with the community.

-Collecting data that are relevant to the community and the spread of disease, including information on the demographic and analysis of behaviors.

-Testing and counseling services that have practical working relationships with local medical care and treatment facilities.

-Informing the public and integrating with an education system.

Key Factors: Educating About HIV

-Regular evaluations of program progress and performance.

-Training programs.

-Availability of recourse facilities and resources for other sexually transmitted diseases.

-Increased availability and use of barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms.

About The Author:

• Sharon Moalem, MD, PhD, has worked with the Population and Community Development Agency as an Aid Worker for the Tarn Nam Jai HIV+ Orphanage in Bangkok, Thailand