5 - AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Disease Prevention and Control

Abstract

This chapter discusses various aspects of AIDS and the prevention and control of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). HIV/AIDS has transformed the prevention and control of STDs by highlighting the importance of effective STD control programs in the prevention of HIV infection. The advent of AIDS has brought new experts into STD control, thereby resulting in an increase in program innovation and evaluation. The continued need for effective HIV control activities has forced traditional STD control programs to incorporate primary and secondary HIV prevention activities such as HIV counseling and testing, postexposure prophylaxis, HIV early-care services, and work with at-risk community groups for STDs and AIDS. By integrating the strengths of HIV prevention strategies—community mobilization, respect for individual autonomy, patient-centered risk reduction, and frank education—STD programs can help improve the sexual health of the population.