3014.1: Monday, October 22, 2001 - 1:00 PM

Abstract #29406

Getting Beyond Male Reproductive Health in Developing Countries: The Project Brotherhood Male Reproductive Health Initiative in the U.S

Eric E. Whitaker, MD, MPH, Director, Project Brotherhood, Woodlawn Health Center, 6337 S. Woodlawn Ave., Chicago, IL 60637, 312-747-7705, movemtn@flash.net, Marcus Murray, Project Brotherhood, Woodlawn Health Center, and Mildred Williamson, PhD, Project Brotherhood: Woodlawn Health Center, 6337 S. Woodlawn, Chicago, IL 60637.

Teen pregnancy continues to be a major global problem. When one reviews the literature, nearly all papers written about male reproductive health report on efforts outside the U.S. Though males are necessary for impregnation, less than 2% of U.S. federal family planning funds are allocated for prevention efforts targeted at males. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Service's Office of Population Assistance recently explored male involvement in family planning efforts through its Title X program. Project Brotherhood: A Black Male Clinic offers primary care and complementary social support to males on the south side of Chicago. Its Reproductive Health Initiative is aimed at increasing its clients knowledge regarding family planning and the role of males in decision making. Additionally knowledge regarding HIV prevention and testing is stressed. This paper will discuss the innovative modalities used by the program including art as a means to discuss reproductive and sexual health. Early results of the program will be shared.

Learning Objectives: 1) Discuss the current state of male reproductive health in the United States as compared with other countries 2) Describe innovative programs to teach African American males about reproductive health in a community setting

Keywords: Reproductive Health,

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Project Brotherhood/ Woodlawn Health Center Chicago, IL
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.

The 129th Annual Meeting of APHA