Document 2114
 DOCN  M94A2114
 TI    Prioritizing women's ability to be self-sufficient.
 DT    9412
 AU    Paxton S
 SO    Int Conf AIDS. 1994 Aug 7-12;10(1):378 (abstract no. PD0119). Unique
       Identifier : AIDSLINE ICA10/94370461
 AB    OBJECTIVES: To illustrate the impact of HIV on gender relations and
       examine options available to Asian women facing the ever-increasing
       burden of the AIDS pandemic. METHOD: S.E. Asia is now most volatile to
       AIDS, with infection rates increasing exponentially. Women under 25 are
       the most vulnerable. Predicted mortality rates of the most productive
       sector of the workforce will negatively impact on development. A survey
       of available research indicates failure in curbing HIV with the commonly
       promoted strategies of abstinence, monogamy and safe sex. Women's
       diminished economic and legal status makes them powerless to affect the
       necessary behavioural change and deconstruction of contemporary gender
       relations. Over-emphasis on prostitution ignores the impact on the
       majority of women. RESULTS: Recognition of the vulnerability and power
       to negotiate are vital tools in dealing with HIV. Economic and legal
       reforms addressing women's issues empower them to have choices in or
       control over sexual activity. CONCLUSION: The social and economic
       consequences of AIDS can be minimised by re-examining the status quo,
       strengthening and involving women's organisations and prioritizing
       women's needs. Governments' and donor agencies' interests in development
       and AIDS prevention can be realised by legal reform and widescale
       funding of community-based, income-generating projects for women.
 DE    Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/*PREVENTION & CONTROL/  TRANSMISSION
       Adult  Asia, Southeastern/EPIDEMIOLOGY  *Developing Countries  Female
       *Gender Identity  *Health Priorities  Health Services Needs and Demand
       Human  HIV Infections/MORTALITY/*PREVENTION & CONTROL/TRANSMISSION
       Negotiating  Power (Psychology)  *Sex Behavior  Socioeconomic Factors
       MEETING ABSTRACT

       SOURCE: National Library of Medicine.  NOTICE: This material may be
       protected by Copyright Law (Title 17, U.S.Code).