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education has been somewhat successful, but a new generation is coming up without the fear that provoked adults to pay attention to condom use in the 1980s and 1990s. Some experts believe that culture-specific education is the key to targeting at-risk populations. Education about prevention is still necessary. Becoming lax in communicating the risks will only give the disease another opportunity to gain a foothold as risky behaviors become popular. Also, information about screening and treatment can prevent unknown spread of the disease to new partners. There are currently a number of confidential and inexpensive testing methods. Once diagnosed, early treatment can hold AIDS at bay, and future partners may be spared infection.

In Africa, the answers are even more complex. Access to inexpensive antivirals is necessary to treating HIV once it's recognized. Confidential and inexpensive screening is necessary to recognize infection, and prevent further spread. Then there's the cultural attitude that must be shifted to a more understanding approach, recognizing that AIDS is a problem and that infected individuals are not evil. Premarital sex is not always consensual in the warring areas of Africa. Women become infected and pregnant at the same time, spreading the disease to their children. How does one educate or curb the spread of sexually related disease in this context?

Education, Treatment, and Preventing the Spread of HIV

Without the first step of screening, access to treatment means nothing because those who are infected won't know to seek help. Without eliminating the cultural bias towards infected individuals, in both Africa and developed nations, screening won't occur. Particularly in Africa, it is a very difficult situation that even experts have difficulty approaching. The African governments and tribal leaders need to step up and accept that they have a problem. Ending the wars and sexual atrocities may be their only hope to saving their people.

What it all comes down to is the fact that we cannot protect everyone against HIV. Adults will choose to take part in risky behaviors - unsafe sex, sharing needles. All we can do is provide as much information as possible and provide treatments to those we can reach. This can decrease further spread, protecting future partners.

Learn more about this author, Alicia M Prater PhD.
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