HIV/AIDS is becoming a real problem in Bali, with approximately 4,000 cases found as of 2009. . People fail to be tested for HIV for many reasons: lack of access to testing services, fear of stigma and discrimination, fear the test will be positive, and lack of access to treatment. These facts mean thousands of opportunities for increased access to treatment, care, support and prevention have been, and are being, missed. The doctors at YRS are very concerned about the increase of STDs and HIV, particularly in the low-risk heterosexual female population
An HIV prevention program is needed to prevent and to control the transmission of HIV/AIDS to the ever-widening and uncontrolled group of low-risk women. This can be done through educational services to enhance accesibility and to outreach the low risk target community about voluntary HIV tests (VCT program).
Badung market as the biggest traditional market in Bali is a very strategic spot to reach women at their workplace. The lack of information and access to VCT services for the marginalized and poor community is one of the causes of a high transmission ratae of HIV through sexual intercourse .
Through the implementation of this project, educational services and VCT for women in Badung Market and surroundings is expected to improve knowledge, attitudes and behaviors of the low risk community toward HIV/AIDS, with the final result of reducing the spread of HIV in low risk women and their children .
VCT services to women, particulary housewives has not reached all components of the community, including women in the Badung Market. Therefore, YRS began a VCT program in January 2009 and approximately 1,400 clients undergo VCT at the YRS Centre. Those who agree to undergo an HIV/AIDS test constitute 40-50% of the above figure or 520-700 clients. As of November 2009, three women have been found to be positive.
This project is made possible through funding by:
