AIDS in the Nordic countries - prevention and control.
Int Conf AIDS 1989 Jun 4-9; 5:174 (abstract no. A.579) Westphal-Christensen B, Bjorner J, Eriksson B, Krasnik A; Danish Institute for Health and Nursing Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
Psychological, social, administrative and political aspects of AIDS in the Nordic countries have been reviewed by the Nordic School of Public Health. As expected, the countries appear quite similar. Specified AIDS-commissions have been established, closely linked to governments. Specific target groups like homosexuals have been involved in preventive activities. Health education has been depicted the most important issue to combat AIDS. Large campaigns have been launched directed to the general public and towards groups like school children and health personnel. Knowledge about AIDS has been seen to be generally good and improving. Systematic knowledge about sexual behaviour, however, is virtually nonexistent. Donated blood and organs are compulsorily tested. Any person can have a test and remain anonymous except in Iceland where the person has to identify himself at the test site, but is reported by code. Treatment and care is similar in the Nordic countries basically handled by the health authorities. Voluntary and private organisations are, however, more important than generally in the health sector. Differences exist in legislation. In Sweden and Iceland HIV-infection is under the law for sexually transmitted diseases. In Finland, it is a notifiable disease while there is no specific legislation concerning HIV-infection in Denmark and Norway.
Keywords: AEGIS, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, Scandinavia, HIV Infections, Health Education, Iceland, Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Health Personnel, Finland, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Child, prevention & control, ICA5
