What is secondary HIV prevention and how might religious or culturally sensitive interventions help prevent transmission?
As HIV treatment becomes increasingly available and accessible, HIV-infected individuals in India will live longer lives. Interventions that enhance the physical and mental health of these individuals and reduce their risk of HIV transmission are referred to as secondary HIV prevention. In serving as a source of strength, guidance, hope, and meaning in life, religious and culturally sensitive interventions can play an important role in improving the mental health of these individuals, which can thereby influence their physical health. A few religious practices, such as meditation and yoga, have been found to have a direct influence on physical health as well, although I do not know of studies in India among HIV-positive individuals. Moreover, religion/culture is only a part of the picture–high quality treatment and family support are also essential. These three factors can bring greater life satisfaction, thus reducing opportunities for unsafe sexual practices and poor health behavior
