Sexual Health, HIV & AIDS in Yunnan Province

Gonorrhoea and syphilis are the most common sexually transmitted diseases found in Yunnan. The number of these cases are increasing rapidly in Yunnan.

The greatest concern to the Government at the moment, however, is HIV and AIDS. 27% (28, 391 people) of China's reported HIV cases are in Yunnan Province. The high rates of transmission in Yunnan are thought to be a result of the geographical location and the transient population. Yunnan shares a total of 4060 kilometres of border with Myanmar (Burma), India, Laos and Vietnam. It's proximity to South East Asia and location within the 'Golden Triangle' have led to high rates of prostitution and drug use. In 51 % of reported HIV cases the source of transmission is said to be drug use (sharing needles). In 27.2 % of cases the source of transmission was said to be sexual intercourse and over 20 % are for unknown reasons (the above reasons not discounted). In 2004 0.4 % of pregnant women tested were found to be HIV+ (4 in every 1,000)

Many organisations and charities (some supported by the International Red Cross) are tackling HIV and AIDS education, counselling and family support through community based projects. The main challenges involve:

 Reducing the stigma associated with HIV and AIDS
 
 Breaking the taboos around sex
 
 Educating people about condom use
 
 Accessing marginalised groups (drug users, sex workers)
 

As well as supporting community-based projects the Government has changed certain policies to allow progress in tackling the above problems. For instance, it is no longer illegal to carry a condom. Hotels can now provide them in rooms and sex workers will not be charged if they are found in possession of a condom. Community-based are also allowed to supply clean needles and there are more hospitals open to provide confidential HIV tests and follow-on care.

Simao Teachers' College is establishing itself as a center of information, guidance and support on sexual health matters, particularly HIV and AIDS. So far this has involved comprehensive lectures and peer led workshops regarding sex, contraception and sexually transmitted diseases.

Source from www.leafgovso.co.uk