Country watch: Colombia
Chandwe, T.
Aids/Std Health Promotion Exchange 1995(4): 5-6
1995
ISSN/ISBN: 1384-2692 PMID: 12346916 Document Number: 294607
PROFAMILIA, Colombia's Family Planning Association, has been running eight male clinics since 1985. They offer information and specialized consultations in sexology, fertility, urology, gynecology, and general medicine. The staff also trains medical personnel in the design and implementation of programs focusing upon vasectomies and male sexual health. Clinic services include counseling, a free telephone hotline, vasectomy operations, and STD diagnosis and treatment. Clients are aged 18-45 years and are typically married and employed with an average of eight years schooling. Services are advertised through television and radio campaigns as well as outreach work at schools, universities, workplaces, and community centers. An HIV/AIDS program began in 1990 focusing especially upon promoting values, attitudes, and behaviors consistent with responsible sexuality. Moreover, HIV testing is offered together with pre- and post-test counseling. Condoms are also sold at a very low price, resulting in the distribution of eight million units in 1994. These clinics have become increasingly popular over the years despite initial misgivings expressed within the community.