CNA Insider
Youths make up some 80% of new cases there, and social conservatism may be contributing to the virus’ spread.
HIV cases have increased by 500% in the Philippines. This means the archipelago has the fastest rate of transmission of the virus in Asia Pacific. Some officials have called it a public health crisis. What’s more alarming, youth make up the bulk of transmission numbers. About 80% of the new cases are of those below the age of 35. If nothing is done, the country could have half a million HIV patients by 2030. Why is HIV spreading so quickly in the Philippines? How does social conservatism, stigma and the lack of awareness create the perfect environment for the virus to spread?
00:00 A surge of HIV cases in the Philippines
04:35 How HIV is transmitted
06:37 Lack of HIV awareness in the Philippines
09:47 Mandated sex education and resistance
13:52 Influence of religion in the Philippines
15:50 Contradictions in Filipino culture
17:33 Controversy around Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE)
20:10 Stigma around condoms
22:44 Finding out your partner gave you HIV
25:16 Filipino sex work industry and HIV risk
28:36 How HIV affects the body and high youth deaths
30:38 Stigma around HIV testing
32:08 Treating and managing HIV
35:05 US funding cuts impact HIV control efforts
37:15 What is PrEP and PEP
38:52 Solutions for the Philippines’ HIV crisis
CVD 