Integrating STI/HIV management strategies into existing MCH/FP programs: Lessons from case studies in East and Southern Africa

Authors

Baker Ndugga Maggwa, Population Council
Ian Askew, Population Council

Document Type

Report

Publication Date

1997

Abstract

Sub-Saharan Africa is confronting an HIV/AIDS epidemic and virtually all health programs in the region are seeking ways of preventing and reducing the spread of this virus. To compound the problem, the presence of certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is known to increase risk of the sexual transmission of HIV. The sub-Saharan region is believed to have some of the highest levels of STIs in the world, thus controlling STIs is not only an important reproductive health care strategy in itself but also a key strategy in reducing the spread of HIV. The strongest evidence to support this has come from the Mwanza Intervention Trial in Tanzania, which demonstrated that improved early detection and treatment of STIs can significantly reduce the incidence of HIV. Putting these principles into practice through health care programs in sub-Saharan Africa remains a challenge. This paper describes the results of a few, selected case studies of efforts that have already been made to address this challenge in east and southern Africa. The case studies document the application of these principles in the context of female clients attending MCH/FP clinics.

Recommended Citation

Maggwa, Baker Ndugga and Ian Askew. 1997. "Integrating STI/HIV management strategies into existing MCH/FP programs: Lessons from case studies in East and Southern Africa," Africa OR/TA Project II. Nairobi: Population Council.

DOI

10.31899/rh1997.1002

Language

English

Project

Africa OR/TA Project II