Rural Indian tribal communities: an emerging high-risk group for HIV/AIDS

• Main Authors: Galwankar Sagar (Author), Balasubramaniam Bindu (Author), Ramachandra Seetharam (Author), Ramaswami Balasubramaniam (Author), Taylor Richard (Author), Karpur Arun (Author), Naik Eknath (Author), Sinnott John (Author), Nabukera Sarah (Author), Salihu Hamisu M (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: BMC, 2005-02-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.
• Notes: 10.1186/1472-698X-5-1; 1472-698X
• Keywords: Public aspects of medicine; RA1-1270
• Source: BMC International Health and Human Rights, Vol 5, Iss 1, p 1 (2005)

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Rural Indian tribes are anthropologically distinct with unique cultures, traditions and practices. Over the years, displacement and rapid acculturation of this population has led to dramatic changes in their socio-cultural and value systems. Due to a poor health infrastructure, high levels of poverty and ignorance, these communities are highly vulnerable to various health problems, especially, communicable diseases including HIV/AIDS. Our study sought to assess knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding sexuality, and the risk factors associated with the spread of HIV/AIDS and STDs among these communities.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>A nested cross sectional study was undertaken as part of the on going Reproductive and Child Health Survey. A total of 5,690 participants age 18-44 were recruited for this study. Data were obtained through home interviews, and focused on socio-demographics, knowledge, attitudes and behaviors regarding sexuality, HIV/AIDS and other STDs.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>The study revealed that only 22% of adults had even heard of AIDS, and 18 % knew how it is transmitted. In addition, only 5% knew that STDs and AIDS were related to each other. AIDS awareness among women was lower compared to men (14% vs.30 %). Regarding sexual practices, 35% of the respondents reported having had extramarital sexual encounters, with more males than females reporting extramarital affairs.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>Lack of awareness, permissiveness of tribal societies for premarital or extra-marital sexual relationships, and sexual mixing patterns predispose these communities to HIV/AIDS and STD infections. There is a dire need for targeted interventions in order to curtail the increasing threat of HIV and other STDs among these vulnerable populations.</p>