27/03/2023
ABCDE complementary approaches for HIV/AIDS prevention
AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficieny Syndrome) is a set of symptoms or diseases caused by decreased immunity from infection by the HIV virus (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). AIDS is the final stage of HIV infection. There are increasing trend of HIV due to s*xual transmissions especially among reproductive age groups. What is the best approach in fighting HIV effectively, efficiently in Malaysia?
HIV preventive services initially concentrated mainly on preventing of s*xual transmission by modifying behavior where ABCDE approach.
A’ component represents ‘abstinence’:
Abstinence, if ‘used’ with absolute consistency, is 100 percent successful. But practicality, it reveals that it can and does fail in the real world. Abstinence is a guaranteed prevention method for HIV. However, it does not fit everyone. Each person decides when and who they would like to be s*xual with, or not be s*xual with. This decision should be based on personal values, and with a clear mind that is free from drugs, alcohol or any external pressures. It's important to consider this option carefully and make the choice which is the best fit for the person.
‘B’ component represents ‘be faithful’:
‘B’ may mean lifelong monogamy, serial monogamy, fidelity in a polygamous marriage, or an overall decline in the number of informal s*xual partners.Having only one partner is a good way to prevent HIV transmission. It's important that the person and their partner know each others status before engaging in any unprotected encounters. After that, as long as they stay monogamous, there is virtually no risk of contracting any HIV infection.
‘C’ component stands for ‘condom use’:
The third component of the ABC health campaign is consistent and correct condom usage . However, if s*xually active peoples use condoms properly and consistently and even decrease the number of their s*xual partners to one, it cannot protect them from the risk of infection .
‘D’ component represents ‘Drugs’
There are many medications available at the moment which can be taken to prevent HIV infection. These types of medication are known as prophylactic medications. Currently, prophylactic medications for HIV are available as either Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) or Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP).
E is for Education
Knowledge on methods of prevention and early virus detection is needed, especially when the campaign against HIV/AIDS focuses on getting to zero new HIV infections; zero discrimination, and zero AIDS related deaths is advocated
However, this ABCDE approach is challenging because people undermine the value of abstinence in many cultures, and some arguments have been linked to biological factors, including increase in hormonal level, especially at puberty, which ultimately causes increased s*xual desire and s*x drive. They need to be risk-conscious, learn to protect themselves, recognizing their HIV status, and have the means to protect themselves. This is possible because of the lack of access to information obtained by this groups related to HIV and AIDS
Knowledge of the ABCD of HIV prevention methods is a key and crucial among individuals, especially when the campaign against HIV/AIDS is geared to end the new infections. Education in community especially for the high risk groups is an indispensable component of an integrated public health response plan and an important element to achieving greater empowerment of individuals and communities through the dissemination of information and publice ngagement in disease prevention and cure
As to consider which of these options are best effective and efficiently, remember to treat ourself with dignity and respect, need to know ourselves and to not feel ashamed or guilty about any decision come to - despite what other people around might say.
Malaysian AIDS Council
Kesihatan Negeri Johor