STD-HIV intervention programme: the Sonagachi model
Singh, I.P.
Health for the Millions 24(1): 11-13
1998
ISSN/ISBN: 0970-8685 PMID: 12348523 Document Number: 273817
In 1992, a sexually transmitted disease (STD)/HIV Intervention Program was established by India's National AIDS Control Organization in Calcutta's Sonagachi, Rambagan and Sethbagan, Jorabagan, and Rabindra Sarani districts to help modify the sex behavior of commercial sex workers and their clients. The program's conceptual framework emphasized respect for the sex workers, recognition of their profession, and reliance on their understanding. A health service center run by the program provides free syndromic syphilis screening to 35-40 patients a day, primarily sex workers. 65 sex workers have been trained as peer educators to distribute information about HIV/STDs to others. In particular, peer educators encourage other sex workers to attend the health clinic for regular check-ups. The educators also carry condoms with them for free distribution to co-workers. In December 1996, 110,328 condoms were distributed. Cross-sectional surveys revealed that sex workers awareness of HIV/AIDS increased from 30.7% at baseline in 1992 to 96.2% in 1995. The percentage of sex workers who always use condoms increased from 1.1% at baseline to 50.1% in 1995. The program has enhanced the self-respect and professional identity of sex workers. As a result, sex workers are better able to negotiate condom use with clients and to turn away men who refuse.