Abstract
In 2015, 143,000 Tamilians were living with HIV/AIDS. Cultural challenges exist that prevent community members from recognizing HIV/AIDS as a problem. Social determinants of health, including government statements and a male-dominated society, are factors that limit harm reduction practices and contribute to HIV/AIDS rates in Chennai. The International Alliance for the Prevention of AIDS (IAPA) collaborated with other non-governmental agencies to conduct 4 focus groups: Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM) (n=6), Women (n=10), Transgender (n=10), and, Counter Parts/Translators (n=8). Themes within and across focus groups provided ideas to properly address HIV/AIDS in the community. Identified themes included stigma, communication, innovative prevention and intervention methods utilizing technology, and perceptions and actions related to monogamy and safe sex practices. Summary: Local and trusted organizations provide relevant perspectives on HIV/AIDS, are well known among community members, assist with translation and provide engagement with at-risk communities. IAPA’s next steps include operationalizing focus group recommendations through a new campaign; “#KnowTheSelfie” to increase education and behavior changes utilizing social media platforms. Local agencies will assist with dissemination of the campaign thereby increasing the likelihood of success in delivering the message to the populations they serve, and addressing the risks that have increased the rates of HIV/AIDS in these communities.
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
Public Health Policies and Practices
KEYWORDS
HIV/AIDS, Community Engagement, Health Impact, Collaboration, Stigma, Education, At-risk Populations
Digital Media
This presenter hasn’t added media.
Request media and follow this presentation.
