InterMedia Survey Institute, 2010. 6 p.
Authors: 
Montez, David
Goldstein, Peter
Organizations: 
AudienceScapes
Description: 
Despite numerous national campaigns and millions of dollars spent on education and health services, HIV/AIDS prevalence rates in Tanzania remain at epidemic levels. Research has shown that it is important for anti-HIV initiatives to target the country's most vulnerable and high risk populations who contribute disproportionately to the spread of the illness. But what are the best ways for public health professionals to deliver information about HIV prevention to these populations? Using the 2010 AudienceScapes survey of Tanzanians as a guide, the following key guidelines emerge: Development practitioners need to focus on the communication mediums that target groups use most often and also trust. Radio, particularly locally-operated stations, fulfills both of these criteria; A large proportion of Tanzanians across the country said they have access to, and discuss health issues with, doctors. However, only a small proportion said they have discussed HIV/AIDS with a doctor. This points to the need for increased outreach to clinics and hospitals to encourage health professionals to proactively inform their patients about HIV/AIDS, particular among high-risk patients. While most respondents claimed to receive a sufficient amount of information about HIV/AIDS prevention, the illness also topped the list of heath issues that many Tanzanians want to know more about. This suggests a case of improper messaging, whether it is ineffective framing of the issue or the use of inappropriate communications mediums, and the need for improved message testing.
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Record created by: 
IIEP