Essay on the STI/HIV/AIDS Health Campaign
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Be Alert for Sexual Health! Carelessness Kills!
The slogan stated for the intended health campaign is designed based on a long-term goal of inhibiting contraction of STI/HIV/AIDS diseases, treatment, and management. Through the slogan different scientific programs will be explored that entails STIs epidemiology, diagnostics, treatment, prevention, vaccination and management among sexually active less than 25 years old. Professionals in each of the programs will be invited to participate in the nationwide health campaign. Patients who have survived the sexual health diseases and those currently living with the virus will also be invited to sensitize the sexually active less than 25 years old. The slogan has been designed taking into consideration all the mentioned factors. Also, it has been argued that STI/HIV/AIDS among adolescent is due to carelessness and not taking responsibility for one's sexual health. "Carelessness Kills!" appears in the slogan to draw the attention of a majority of the population about the severity of their actions when it involves their sexual life. Being alert would imply one would always notice any circumstance that may lead to irresponsible sexual behavior that may put one at risk of contracting STIs. The slogan is based on three principles that include appropriateness, effectiveness, and efficiency.
Communication Channels to be used in the Health Campaign
The STI/HIV/AIDS Health Campaign will be disseminated through different channels with an aim to reach a large population. First, TV and Cinema will be used in the campaign extensively. Television adverts about sexual health will be designed based on specific types of STIs that include syphilis, gonorrhea, and HIV/AIDS. The adverts will focus on the carelessness that leads to contraction of these STIs and how they can be evaded. Treatment plan and the recommended management strategies will also be advertised through TV programs. The available adverts will then be documented for screening in Cinemas halls in different parts of the country. At least six adverts will be designed for this purpose. The Cinema shows will be conducted based on the advice of public health officers and other relevant stakeholders in health care. This will help in the evaluation of the appropriateness of the program to the target population. Those aged less than 25 years visit cinema halls frequently and it will, therefore, suite the goal of the campaign.
Second, radio adverts will be designed for each of the sexually transmitted diseases covered in the campaign. Different radio stations will be used for this purpose. Possibly, the adverts will also be offered in different languages to reach a wider population. Third, Social Media particularly Facebook page will be developed seeking an audience of those aged 25 years and below. The Facebook page will invite likes, and the messages on sexual awareness will be published on a daily basis. The slogan will be used as the topic for every advert. This will be a great platform to promote sexual health awareness among the targeted population. Lastly, printed T-Shirts will be issued to those aged 25 years and below. The t-shirts will also be worn during road shows and campaigns. The road shows and campaigns will be lead by selected artists with the aim of reaching out to their fans on matters concerning sexual health.
Potential Barriers Likely to be Faced when Promoting the Health Campaign
Barriers are likely to be experienced during this campaign. First, it may not be easy to determine the success of the campaign immediately despite using various communication channels. Obtaining data on indicators of a successful sexual health campaign are resource extensive. Further, it may not be possible to establish the link between reduced risks of STI/HIV/AIDS contraction and the awareness campaign we have conducted. Second, the limited timeframe for the campaign may not result into long-term measurable outcomes. Observing the behavioral pattern may require a longer period thus the six months period for the campaign may be inadequate. Further, resources may not be adequate to proceed to the evaluation stage of the campaign.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the campaign will enhance awareness among those aged 25 years and below on the dangers of irresponsible sexual behavior and at the same time emphasize the need for being responsible regarding sexual health. Engaging the stakeholders such as health professionals will keep the campaign process well informed.
References
Fox, K. A., Sixsmith, J., Doyle, P., & Barry, M. M. (2014). A literature review on health communication campaign evaluation with regard to the prevention and control of communicable diseases in Europe.
Kasteel, L., Holt, J., Hayhurst, B., & Young, J. (2003). Young Women's Sexual Health Project evaluation report. Women's Health Strategy Unit, DHCS.
Rice, R. E., & Atkin, C. K. (2012). Public communication campaigns. Sage.
Snyder, L. B. (2007). Health communication campaigns and their impact on behavior. Journal of nutrition education and behavior, 39(2), S32-S40.
Tripp, J., & Viner, R. (2005). Sexual health, contraception, and teenage pregnancy. ABC of adolescence, 2-25.
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