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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Claudia Llantén and Marilyn Aguirre-Molina. The Heilbrunn Department of Population and Family Health, Columbia University, 60 Haven Avenue #B2, New york, NY 10032, 1212 302 5279, cl2393@columbia.edu

Nicaragua HIV/AIDS Policies

Background: Although HIV/AIDS prevalence in Nicaragua is relatively low, high rates of poverty and disparate access to services place sectors of the population at risk for an expanded epidemic. There are various factors that contribute to this situation that need to be addressed to reduce the risks and impact of HIV/AIDS in Nicaragua. As the epidemic is in its early stages of prevalence in Nicaragua, the country is at point where an analysis of current polices on HIV/AIDS would be beneficial in determining future actions and interventions.

Methods: In collaboration with a local NGO and the UNFPA country office, a purposeful sample of representatives from key sectors in the country was recruited to obtain their input on conditions in the country and possible interventions. A total of 20 in-depth key informant interviews were conducted. The semi-structured interviews were analyzed via systematic coding using Atlas TI software.

Results: Nicaraguan HIV/AIDS legislation stipulates protection of human rights and the promotion of HIV/AIDS prevention. But key informants identified limitations in: implementation, monitoring and public awareness of existing laws. Additionally, existing policies lack a gender perspective and deference for sexual orientation. These limitation facilitate discrimination and violation of human rights related to HIV/AIDS.

Conclusions: To address the weaknesses strategies were identified to improving accountability, evaluation and civil participation in the accountability process. Best practice guidelines and recommendations for addressing gender, human rights, stigma & discrimination need to be considered in this process as well.

Learning Objectives:

• 1.Recognize weakness and strenghts of Nicaragua HIV/AIDS policies.
• 2.Compare and contrast current Nicaragua HIV/AIDS with key informants point of view.
• 3.Develop recomendations for addresing gender, human rights stigma & discrimation in Nicaragua HIV/AIDS policies.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered