Title: ABC, AB or SAVE.

POPLINE Document Number: 314845

Author(s):

Kurian M

Source citation:

Contact, 2006 Aug;(182):6-8.

Abstract:

The ABC strategy, which stands for Abstinence, Be faithful and Condoms has been a key strategy in comprehensive HIV prevention programmes. To its credit, the catchy and simple acronym has popularized HIV prevention measures. It has brought to the forefront the role of sex in HIV transmission and put forward the promotion of condoms as a key component of HIV prevention. It has also, in no uncertain terms, underlined the important role of behavioural modification such as delaying sexual debut and reducing the number of sexual partners in curbing HIV transmission in communities. But some of the messages used for HIV prevention have had the unfortunate consequence of adding to the stigma surrounding HIV. In some respects, ABC is one such message. ABC has proven less than ideal to address the complexities of human life, as it does not take into account the critically important issue of gender. It has failed to address masculinity, and its often harmful and violent expression. It avoids the reality of women being deprived of their right to negotiate sexual relationships. Some women's empowerment programmes for HIV prevention have also added to the existing burden on women as safe sex negotiation strategies have become their exclusive responsibility. (excerpt)

Keywords:

Critique
Evaluation
Policymakers
Abstinence, Be Faithful, Condom Use
HIV Prevention
First Intercourse
Age Factors
Safer Sex
Gender Relations
Religious Aspects
Administrative Personnel
Organization and Administration
Sex Behavior
Behavior
HIV Infections
Viral Diseases
Diseases
Population Characteristics
Demographic Factors
Population
Gender Issues
Sociocultural Factors
Religion