The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #41931

Pamela Rachel Gross, MD, MPH, National School of Public Health, MEDUNSA, 2239 Vistamont Drive, Decatur, GA 30033, (404) 329-1085, pam-stan@mindspring.com

Background: Most of the information on HIV prevalence in South Africa is extrapolated from the annual antenatal clinic survey. Review of the literature suggests that there is a need for information regarding the age of onset of HIV infection and prevalence in subpopulations other than women attending antenatal clinics. Further, education about HIV in the school setting has been noted to be quite variable and generally insufficient, creating an opportunity to pilot a unique health education approach, which will test a surveillance tool at the same time. Objectives: Determine the efficacy of unlinked HIV point prevalence testing in high schools as a surveillance tool, noting that such testing requires informed consent from each student and parent involved. Gather information on the prevalence of HIV by grade and gender in four rural high schools. Assess the usefulness of providing the results to the study population, as a health education tool (What might have caused this situation? What can be done about it?). Methodology: The HIV test used in this project is a modified particle agglutination test on dried blood spots, requiring only a drop of blood from each participant. Local HIV counselors conduct the health education sessions, during which testing occurs. Results: Not available at time of abstract submission. Anticipated Impact: Students from pilot sites will be less likely to put themselves at risk for acquiring HIV infection. The health and education departments can use the study results to tailor their interventions, presumably increasing their impact in the community.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to

• Integrate the concept of surveillance into a high school health education curriculum
• Recognize opportunities for collaboration between health and education departments in the area of HIV prevention
• Recognize, analyze and overcome obstacles to carrying out HIV projects at community level

Keywords: Surveillance, Health Education Strategies

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.