Interim outcomes for a community-based program to prevent perinatal HIV transmission

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Behavior
• HIV/AIDS Prevention

Background:

• Perinatal HIV transmission remains a significant global health concern.
• Community-based interventions are crucial for preventing HIV infection in women.
• Cognitive social learning theory provides a framework for behavior change programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a community-based program (APPLE project) aimed at preventing perinatal HIV infection.
• To test a primary prevention model using street outreach and small media to increase condom use among women.
• To assess the impact of the intervention on community perceptions, social norms, and condom use.

Main Methods:

• A quasi-experimental, two-community, time series design was employed for program evaluation.
• Formative research informed the development of culturally relevant media materials and outreach strategies.
• Annual street surveys assessed program reach, name recognition, and self-reported behaviors.

Main Results:

• Significant APPLE project name recognition (40%), media contact (63%), and outreach contact (36%) were observed after two years.
• The intervention community showed more positive social norms regarding condom acceptability.
• Condom use at last sexual encounter significantly increased in the intervention community compared to the control community.

Conclusions:

• Community-based interventions integrating street outreach and targeted media can effectively increase condom use.
• Positive shifts in social norms contribute to the success of HIV prevention programs.
• The APPLE project demonstrates a viable model for preventing HIV infection in women and reducing perinatal transmission.