Cruz J, Castro L, Romero J, Flores G; International Conference on AIDS.
Int Conf AIDS. 2000 Jul 9-14; 13: abstract no. ThOrD738.
J. Cruz, Prosa, Paseo De La Republica 1583 - 2ND FLOOR., Lima 09 -URB. Matellini, PERU, Peru, Tel.: +511-4672502, Fax: +511-2417364, E-mail: juliocruz3@latinmail.com
The problem: Living with HIV/AIDS in Peru is characterized by lack of access to timely information for diagnosis and treatment during the process of the infection,lack of programs for emotional support,absence of a network of health services for HIV+ people;insufficient involment of the people living with HIV in the development of programs and polices on the issues affecting their lives; and a centralization of services in Lima,the capital. Description: Faced with this situation,PLWHIV started a program to educate and empower HIV+ leaders in 13 cities throughout the country.The people trained in the programe become agents who gain a visibility around the country portarying the reality of people living with HIV/AIDS in an objective,non prejudiced and positive manner, this also fosters the organization of people living with HIV/aids.At the same time,awareness workshops are delivered to health care providers to enhance or strengthen the system that cares for HIV+ people.Also ,educational interventions are developed in communities throughout the country to provide update information to policy makers and to raise their awareness of human right issues.Finally,we are fostering the creation of a National Board of HIV+ Organizations in Peru. Conclusions: Training of HIV+ leaders and their participation in an organized effort to build a response to the AIDS crisis from the communities affected by it is an important element for the necessary change of behavior and practices. Raising the awareness of health care profesionals has paved the way for a better health care system that works for people living with HIV/aids,both in hospitals and their homes. The organization of people living with HIV/aids has been promoted as necessary component for the development and enforcement of effective policies and programs on issues that affect our lives.
Publication Types:
Keywords:
- Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
- Awareness
- Counseling
- HIV Infections
- HIV Seropositivity
- Human Rights
- Humans
- Infection
- Leadership
- Organizations
- Peru
- Prejudice
- education
Other ID:
UI: 102242032
From Meeting Abstracts