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Needs assessment for an urban native HIV and AIDS prevention program
P Brassard1, C Smeja, C Valverde
1Public Health Unit, Montreal General Hospital, QC, Canada.
Summary
This study assessed HIV and AIDS education needs for urban Native populations. Findings reveal rapid HIV transmission risks through sexual networks, emphasizing community-led program planning for culturally relevant interventions.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Anthropology
- Community Health
Background:
- Urban Native communities face unique challenges in HIV and AIDS education and prevention.
- Community-based organizations requested a needs assessment to inform program development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a needs assessment for an HIV and AIDS education and prevention program tailored to urban Native individuals in Montreal.
- To identify key factors influencing HIV transmission and prevention within this population.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the HIV/AIDS Rapid Anthropological Assessment Procedures (AIDS RAP) for data collection.
- Conducted a five-session focus group with nine Native participants.
- Performed in-depth, semi-structured interviews with five additional community members.
- Ensured data validity through review by a steering committee.
Main Results:
- Identified potential for rapid HIV transmission along sexual interaction networks connecting urban and rural Native populations.
- Highlighted the importance of community control in AIDS program planning.
- Emphasized the need to integrate traditional values and healing practices into prevention strategies.
Conclusions:
- Community-led program planning is crucial for effective HIV and AIDS education and prevention among urban Native people.
- Culturally sensitive approaches that incorporate traditional values are essential for successful interventions.
- Addressing the specific transmission dynamics within urban-to-rural networks is vital for comprehensive prevention efforts.