AEGiS-10IAC: AIDS prevention campaigns during carnival in S. Paulo, Brazil.

10th International AIDS Conference

Yokohama, Japan — Aug 7-12, 1994

AIDS prevention campaigns during carnival in S. Paulo, Brazil.

Int Conf AIDS 1994 Aug 7-12; 10:396 (abstract no. PD0765)
Inglesi E, Pacca J, Barbosa R, Prebill JR; AIDS Prevention Program, S. Paulo State Secretariat of Health.

OBJECTIVE: Implement a continuing prevention program in STD/AIDS and measure safer sex practices among the population that goes to the rehearsals of 20 samba schools throughout the city of Sao Paulo starting 4 months before carnival ("mardi-gras").

METHODS: 150 health promoters from government and NGO's were trained to give face to face educational interventions, distribute condoms through informal interviews and counseling before and during carnival, and assess risk behavior and attitudes among the target population.

RESULTS: 1. The prevention activities were incorporated in all of the 20 samba schools. 2. Of the 60,000 people reached, 85% stated the frequent use of condoms with eventual partners, however, 62% did not know how to use a condom correctly. 3. The media coverage was engaged to stimulate safer sex practices during this period. 4. The program was reproduced in 150 cities statewide.

DISCUSSION: Condom distribution is effective only when associated to a continuous educational intervention that can check its proper use and stimulate safer sex practices.

Keywords: AEGIS, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, Condoms, Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Risk-Taking, Safe Sex, Schools, Brazil, ICA10
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PD0765