AIDS Prevention Programs Can Go the Distance

Technology enables developing countries to access approaches

THURSDAY, Sept. 23, 2004 (HealthDayNews) -- With proper support, AIDS prevention programs can be transferred to developing countries via distance learning technology using computers and CD-based interactive programs, says a Medical College of Wisconsin study in the Sept. 24 issue of Science.

They tested the concept using a program that utilizes popular community leaders to educate others about how to avoid contracting HIV.

"Our findings show that advanced communication technologies can link service providers worldwide with training, technical assistance, and consultation in how to use new approaches originating in the research arena," study leader Jeffrey Kelly, director of the Center for AIDS Intervention Research, said in a prepared statement.

Simply providing service providers in developing countries with printed materials about new scientific advances in HIV prevention isn't sufficient, the study found.

Results are much better when service providers learn the skills for implementing a new HIV prevention approach through a combination of interactive distance learning technology and one-on-one consultation, the study found.

Many service providers in developing countries have little or no access to journal articles and other sources of information about advances in HIV prevention research.

More information

The American Academy of Family Physicians tells you how to reduce the risk of HIV/AIDS.

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