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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
Juan Díaz, MD, PhD1, Sheri Lippman, MPH2, Suellen Miller, PhD, CNM3, Loren W. Galvão, MD, MPH1, and Magda Chinaglia, MD, PhD1. (1) The Population Council, Brazil, Rua Dr. Ruy Vicente de Mello, 1047, Cidade Universitaria, Campinas, 13084-050, Brazil, (2) University of Michigan Population Fellow, The Population Council, Brazil, Rua Dr. Ruy Vicente de Mello, 1047, Cidade Universitaria, Campinas, 13084-050, Brazil, (55-19) 3249-0121, jdiaz@popcouncil.org.br, (3) Expanding Contraceptive Choice Project, The Population Council, One Dag Hammarskjold Plaza, New York, NY 10017
Objective: The scarce information available regarding the spread of HIV/AIDS along Brazil’s national borders indicates an urgent need for increased preventative efforts. Our objective was to determine the factors influencing transmission and to assess local needs in prevention, diagnostic, and treatment services in order to make recommendations for interventions that incorporate the unique cultural context at border areas. Methods: We conducted a Strategic Assessment of HIV/AIDS infection in six frontier municipalities, using a rapid, qualitative methodology adapted from the WHO Strategic Approach to Contraceptive Introduction. The assessment includes use of existing information and field-based qualitative data collection techniques, including observation of service delivery points and interviews with local leaders, providers, and community members. The fieldwork is guided by a participatory process, including the identification of strategic questions developed by stakeholders, who are involved throughout the research process. Results: We found severe deficiencies in access and quality of services, particularly in prevention activities. The situation is complicated by the socio-economic context that increases residents’ vulnerability to disease, including factors such as illegal residency and contact with drug traffic, contraband, and sex commerce. Recommended interventions are being designed to respond to the needs of vulnerable populations in each area. Conclusions: Involving stakeholders representing a breadth of perspectives led to more inclusive results and interventions with a greater likelihood of success. Efforts based on these findings must be implemented collaboratively among border sharing nations with continued input from stakeholders. The methodology is strongly recommended for future assessments of local need in the field.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: HIV/AIDS, Methodology
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.