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ARTICLE
Bridging The Divide: Translating HIV Awareness Into Sustainable HIV Prevention In Vulnerable Communities
Issue Vol. 2 No. 01 (2025): Volume 02 Issue 01 --- Section Articles
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Abstract
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) continues to pose a substantial global public health challenge, particularly within underserved communities where its prevalence remains notably high. Despite considerable efforts in awareness campaigns aimed at educating individuals about HIV transmission and prevention, a critical gap persists between acquiring knowledge and translating it into sustained behavioral changes. This review delves into the efficacy of HIV prevention programs specifically within economically disadvantaged communities, scrutinizing the multifaceted obstacles that impede the conversion of awareness into practical, protective actions. Key impediments include pervasive poverty, restricted access to essential healthcare services, deeply entrenched social stigma, and prevailing cultural norms, all of which significantly hinder individuals from adopting crucial preventive measures.
To effectively bridge this awareness-to-action divide, HIV prevention initiatives must embrace a comprehensive and adaptable multi-faceted strategy. Successful programs are characterized by significant community involvement, ensuring robust access to vital health services, and implementing behavioral interventions meticulously tailored to the distinct needs and cultural nuances of each community. Engaging local leadership and proactively addressing the broader socio-economic determinants of health are pivotal strategies for amplifying the impact of these programs, thereby fostering greater community participation and adherence to preventive practices. Furthermore, a concerted effort to mitigate HIV-related stigma is indispensable for cultivating a supportive and non-judgmental environment, which encourages individuals to readily seek HIV testing, counseling, and prevention tools without fear of social repercussions. This abstract underscores the urgent need for integrated interventions that transcend mere information dissemination, focusing instead on holistic approaches that empower individuals and communities to enact sustainable behavioral changes against HIV.
Keywords
References
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