Improving HIV/AIDS policy responses for southern African militaries

Introduction: Military lifestyles pose higher risks for HIV/AIDS contraction and transmission. This plagues military security and effectiveness in addition to negatively impacting communities influenced by military presence. A large population of young people uninformed about HIV/AIDS (15-24) compounds the issue when this age group comprises ideal recruitment age. Goal: To identify policies and/or programs, designed to prevent HIV among Southern military personnel. Methodology: An extensive and systematic review of the literature was undertaken and all relevant abstracts and full-text articles analyzed and included in the review. Results: Southern African soldiers are more likely to die of HIV/AIDS related illnesses than combat. Military specific data on HIV/AIDS is scarce as it is perceived as a national security issue, which makes data collection and policy responses more difficult. Results indicate that effective training policies for military groups are through collective training sessions focusing upon risk situations as opposed to risk behavior. These facts are worsened by overwhelming data demonstrating that militaries are unprepared or unable to provide sufficient HIV/AIDS screening, prevention, training, or responsive systems despite heightened civilian progress. More effective and longer-lasting behavioral changes result from comprehending socio-cultural norms of the region. Conclusion/Policy Implications: Viewing the Southern African militaries as key populations for targeted education, training, and policy shifts would provide immediate and lasting beneficial outcomes. This demographic group is crucial to decreasing infection and mortality rates in this region. It is necessary to identify outcome indicators that can be used to assess the efficacy of the policy or program implemented.