HIV/AIDS Prevention Education

Abstract American Indians/Alaska Natives represent slightly less than 0.9% of the total U.S. population, yet they account for one percent of the reported HIV and AIDS cases nationwide. Approximately 2537 cumulative AIDS cases have been identified in the American Indian/ Alaska Native community; AIDS related deaths account for about half of the cumulative cases among Native Peoples. The number of HIV/ AIDS cases is swelling as evidenced by the 122 new HIV infections and 190 new AIDS cases reported in 2001. Increases in HIV infection among American Indians/Alaska Natives result primarily from unprotected sexual activity and injection drug use. The information in this article considers cultural and family traits and values that should be addressed in HIV/AIDS prevention education and culturally competent instruction that complements these variables.