The Survey "Analysis of Sexual Behavior in the West Indies and Guiana", and AIDS Prevention in the French Departments of America

Abstract

The main findings of the survey on sexual behavior and AIDS prevention in the West Indies an Guiana are presented briefly in this paper and are compared with findings from a similar survey conducted in France.

The description of the major findings of this survey is of great importance given the current magnitude of the AIDS epidemic in the French Departments of America. In order to prevent its spread, it is of utmost importance to identify behaviors that mayplace individuals at risk of infection. Similarly, it is essential to understand the deep motivations of such behaviors as well as the level of knowledge about prevention methods and frequency of their usage. This paper emphasizes the degree of anareness among individuals regarding risk of infections, changes in behavior, and success made in attaining prevention goals.

Lastly, the paper suggests that in order to strengthen the effects of this survey it would be advisable to make clear, as soon as possible, the marked differences between these countries, especially regarding multiple partners among heterosexuals. These differences are based on cultural specificities that were beyond the scope of these surveys and that would require studies of a different nature, such as historical comparisons.