STUDY THE EFFECT OF INFORMATION, EDUCATION AND COMMUNICATION ON RISKY BEHAVIOURS AMONG PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS IN KHARTOUM STATE, SUDAN- 2013.

*Dr. Mohamed Osman Elamin Bushara, Prof. Hatim Rahimtalla Mohamed, Dr. Fatima Fadul,
Dr. Ahmed Abdella Mohammed Osman

ABSTRACT

Human Immunodeficiency Virus remains one of the most significant public health challenges, particularly in low and middle income countries. Sudan has the highest number of people living with HIV/AIDS in the region. The Information Education and Communication Strategy (IEC) is aiming to change and reinforce the health-related behaviors in the target audience that concern with this problem. The study aimed to evaluate the effects of (IEC) in risky behaviors among people living with HIV/AIDS. A quasi-experimental study was conducted in Khartoum State, Sudan targeted people living with the disease. Twenty five out of 250 registered members were selected randomly. An intensive intervention was carried out for six months, including; a series of lectures, home visiting, focus group discussions, distribution of pamphlets, posters and video show. The intervention has successfully changed risky behaviors that might lead to infection; there was a significant increase in using condoms, making relationship with uninfected persons, change in isolation from the community, decrease in blood donation to community and significant increase in the disclosing HIV status in health settings. The study concludes that the (IEC) has a strong effect in changing risky behaviors concerning people living with HIV/AIDS. The study recommended that Sudan National Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Control Program and Federal Ministry of Health have to prepare intensified, comprehensive Information, Education and Communication messages, materials for (PLWAIDS/HIV) concentrating on equipping life skills and practices.

Keywords: AIDS, Information, Education and Communication.