Effect of social and behavior change communication by using infotainment in community perception of adolescent girls for reproductive and sexual health care in high priority districts of Assam

Abstract

Problem consideredAdolescence, being the transitional phase, is marked by physical and psychological changes. Considering the challenges of adolescent girls (10–19 years) and long-term potential of investment, adolescent health was given special emphasis in NHP 2015. MethodsTo assess the effect of social and behavior change communication by using infotainment in community perception of Adolescent reproductive and sexual health care in high priority districts of Assam. Interventional Study-Before-after cross-sectional study, conducted in six HPD of Assam, along with Focus Group Discussions. Adolescent girls (AGs) were interviewed using predesigned pretested format. FGDs were conducted, 2 per district in each group. Social and behavior change communication (SBCC) intervention was given using facts for life video show followed by discussion and feedback. Statistical analysis used rates, ratio, proportion, and chi square. ResultsFrom 1350 households, 528 adolescent girls were interviewed. Knowledge about anemia was poor – only 56.1% agreed that anemia can be prevented. Majority (65.3%) did not know about any contraceptive methods. Safe sexual practices and HIV were known to 25.2% AGs. Majority (74.8%) did not know about STI/RTI – many (36.2%) would not inform anybody while some (25.6%) will consult doctor for such symptoms. SBCC intervention showed significant improvement in knowledge and perception of AGs (p<0.05). ConclusionsSBCC by using infotainment in community perception and practices for adolescent health, nutrition, awareness about HIV/AIDS, and other RTI/STI was found effective in improving awareness amongst adolescent girls in High Priority Districts of Assam.