Title: HIV counselling and testing.

POPLINE Document Number: 143339

Author(s):

Kayawe I
Kelly M
Baggaley R

Source citation:

WORLD HEALTH, 1998 Nov-Dec;51(6):12-3.

Abstract:

Voluntary HIV counseling and testing (VCT) is an entry point to a range of HIV prevention and care interventions. Given recent breakthroughs to help people with HIV/AIDS, there is considerable reason to promote such services. However, despite the particular need for VCT in developing countries with high prevalences of HIV infection, VCT is rarely available. One exception to this general lack of HIV testing and counseling services in Africa is the AIDS Information Center in Uganda, where more than 450,000 people have received VCT. Zambia's first VCT center, Kara Counseling and Training Trust, was established in November 1992, and offers a range of support services outside the workplace or medical center. Fear, the lack of available medical help for HIV-infected people, and stigma associated with having HIV are discussed as some of the reasons why people decline to be tested for HIV infection.

Keywords:

Zambia
Uganda
Developing Countries
HIV Testing
Promotion
Counseling
HIV Prevention
AIDS Prevention
Needs
Fear
Social Discrimination
Treatment
Obstacles
Africa, Southern
Africa, Sub Saharan
Africa
Africa, Eastern
Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses
Examinations and Diagnoses
Marketing
Economic Factors
Clinic Activities
Program Activities
Programs
Organization and Administration
HIV Infections
Viral Diseases
Diseases
AIDS
Emotions
Psychological Factors
Behavior
Social Problems