Elyse Levine, PhD, Consultant, Ave. la Capilla #559, Casa #9, San Salvador, El Salvador, +503 243-6443, elevine@integra.com.sv

The impact of two levels of intervention are assessed against a comparison group, for whom the intervention was delayed until after the study. The two intervention groups consisted of (1) a peer-counseling approach, using primarily in-class lectures, and (2) peer counseling plus expanded channels of information and intervention, including celebrity role models, parents, teachers, and suppliers of condoms. Two schools participated in each level of intervention and the comparison group, for a total of six schools (N=514). An outcome evaluation was conducted using pre- and post-implementation surveys for students with mixed model analysis on SAS. Compared to the comparison group, both levels of intervention significantly improved knowledge of transmission and prevention, and showed significant change in: attitudes towards the use of condoms; perceived risk of contracting HIV; self-efficacy towards the use of condoms; and current use of condoms. Neither intervention resulted in changes in delaying initiation of sexual activities or the number of sexual partners. The expanded intervention showed significant improvements in some measures compared to the group that received only peer counseling. Lessons learned from introducing sexual education in a culture heavily influenced by the Church will be discussed, in addition to dealing with interruptions caused by disordered classrooms and natural disasters .

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to

• Identify factors related to successful school-based interventions in public schools in Central America.
• Describe measures of effectiveness on knowledge, attitudes, self efficacy and behaviors related to HIV prevention among youth.
• Gain perspectives on implementing programs amidst natural disasters and disruptive classrooms.

Keywords: HIV Interventions, Developing Countries

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Fulbright Scholar Program UNICEF El Salvador
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: This research was made possible through an award by the Fulbright Scholar Program administered by the Council for International Exchange of Scholars.