School-based HIV prevention in Dakar, Senegal: findings from a peer-led program
Massey, P.M.; Prelip, M.; Rideau, A.; Glik, D.C.
International Quarterly of Community Health Education 33(2): 129-141
2012
ISSN/ISBN: 0272-684X PMID: 23661415 DOI: 10.2190/iq.33.2.cDocument Number: 574239
This evaluation study examines the effectiveness of a peer-led technology-focused HIV prevention program targeting in-school youth in Dakar, Senegal. A quasi-experimental design was used to examine differences in knowledge, attitudes, and behavioral intentions related to HIV testing among students at three intervention schools and a comparison school. Findings at the school level vary; however, results suggest that students exposed to intervention activities had a 1.5 greater odds of intending to get HIV tested compared with students not exposed to the program. As access to and use of digital technologies continue to increase throughout parts of sub-Saharan Africa, programs will continue to leverage this medium to diffuse effective health education and promotion messages for intervention.