Objectives: Explore cultural definition of sex, risk perception and knowledge, attitudes and practice among Guatemalan adolescents. Identify possible messages to include in an HIV/STD prevention program.
Abstract Text: Adolescents in Guatemala are at high-risk for HIV/STD. However, research to date has largely focused on Guatemala City and environs. This study addressed that gap in public health knowledge by looking at adolescents along the Mexico and Belize borders where HIV incidence is the highest. Methods: Data were collected through 15 focus groups (nine male and six female). Findings: Results indicate that sex is viewed as a secret part of adolescent life (especially for girls), not to be discussed with family. There is clear lack of communication with parents and most information is gathered from peers. Male sexual activity is accepted, but female sexual activity is thought to bring dishonor to their families. Boys have limited knowledge of condoms, and believe them to be exclusively for use with sex workers due to the association with promiscuity and disease. Girls expressed no need for condoms since they feared that condom use would give the appearance of premeditated sex or sex with men other than husbands. Both boys and girls have high knowledge of HIV, but do not perceive themselves to be at risk. Recommendations include parent involvement, peer education and media campaigns in TV, radio and magazines to promote non-biased sex education, and consistent condom use.
This study was conducted and will be presented by an MPH candidate.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to: - Recognize how some Guatemalan adolescents relate to their families, and the lack of communication that exists between them. -Describe how adolescents relate to their peers and how they go about developing romantic and sexual relationships -Assess the level of HIV/AIDS knowledge and the perception of risk towards HIV/STIs among adolescents in Guatemala -Recognize the lack of condom use and the barriers towards its use, among this population
Keywords: Adolescent Health, Condom Use
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.