Solutions for Youth

Home

Introduction to Solutions

Solutions for IDU

Solutions for IDU cont'd

Solutions for Minorities

Solutions for Minorities cont'd

Conclusion

Bibliography

(45)

There are obviously countless steps that can be taken to lower Hartford’s AIDS rate. Along with addressing the drug using and minority populations, there is an increasing rate of HIV/AIDS among adolescents. In 2006, 1.3% of the newly diagnosed cases in Connecticut alone were those between the ages 13-19 (37), showing a significant increase in the infection from previous years. In the United States, in general, approximately 50% of all new HIV infections occur with adolescents (7). These are shockingly large proportions.

            By addressing the youth through small group information sessions, independent from school systems, there can be a dramatic increase in knowledge, attitudes, and behavior regarding HIV/AIDS (1). These might be more effective than in school education, especially in Hartford, because there is a significant correlation between high school dropout rates and AIDS cases at .6006, meaning that the “dropouts” will not be reached by in school programs. In one short intervention, with neither great funds nor great effort, information can be provided that can “empower adolescents to protect themselves” (13). Simple sexual risk reduction education could, and has demonstrated to reduce sexual risk behavior and ultimately lead to a better health outcome, fewer instances of unprotected intercourse, a lower STD rate (13), and of course, less transmission of HIV.

NEXT