Seminar in Orissa urges abstinence for AIDS prevention

Bhubaneswar – Abstinence and not contraceptives can help in preventing AIDS – this was the message given in a recent state–level seminar on HIV/AIDS organised by the Catholic Church–run Damien Social Development Institute (DSDI) in Bhubaneswar, Orissa.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Fred Schwartz, an AIDS specialist, advocated abstinence and self–control as the only solutions to check HIV infection.

“Condoms are not a solution to preventing AIDS; abstinence is. Morality plays a key role in controlling the spread of the disease,” he said. “Because, four out of every five persons with AIDS have acquired it through sex outside marriage.”

Dr. Schwartz dwelt on the Catholic teachings on HIVS/AIDS, emotional issues involving the AIDS–affected persons, their families’ feelings and reactions, practical counseling techniques, universal healthcare precautions and preventive measures.

As many as 1,866 HIV–positive cases have been detected in Orissa state as of March this year.

“In view of the growing number of HIV infections in the state, sex education in schools, awareness programmes in rural health centres and among the vulnerable groups like truck drivers, migrant labourers have to be hastened,” he said.

“During sex–education classes in schools and colleges, we teach the adolescents and the youth to respect and preserve their body and be aware and conscious of their decisions. Morality plays a vital role,” he continued.

The seminar was well attended by health workers, teachers, nuns, social workers and religious preachers of the Catholic community, and members of leading NGOs.

“It is very difficult to change the mindset of the people all of a sudden. Condom promotion is beneficial in two ways – for family planning and for protection from STDs/HIV. We appreciate the good work of the NGOs who are working for cause of HIV/AIDS,” said Dr. S.S. Panda, director of Orissa State AIDS Control Society.

Dr. Momotaz Kullu of DSDI dispensary said that the combined efforts of health/social workers and moral teachers would check to spread HIV/AIDS.

Convener of the seminar and director of DSDI, Sacred Heart Fr. Subal Chandra Nayak, said that the purpose of the seminar was to highlight the practical issues in dealing with AIDS patients.

Fr. Augustine Singh, counsellor, said schools were one of the best institutions to impart moral education to adolescents, which would help prevent HIV/AIDS.