Media and Public Health in the Context of HIV/AIDS

Abstract

AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is one of the deadly epidemics that affected millions of people, especially in poor sub-Saharan Africa. Sexual intercourse is the most important transmission route of HIV. Condom and mutually faithful sexual relationships are accepted as the main methods of protection against HIV risk today. Media is an important tool that informs, enlightens, and affects the public. Scientific studies have revealed that the media has important functions in prevention from HIV. This study focused on the media's role in HIV prevention. Today's media is generally divided into mass media and social media. Exposure to mass media programs about HIV prevention topics generally can help increase HIV/AIDS awareness and reduce risk behaviors. Social media, even if not used sufficiently in countries where HIV is common, has also an important role in informing and educating people about HIV/AIDS, its transmission, and prevention.