HIV/AIDS
Australia is concerned at the incidence and impact of HIV/AIDS, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region and the potential social and economic impacts that HIV/AIDS can have on developing countries like Bangladesh. As a result, Australia calls for greater cooperation and coordination between affected communities, governments, researchers, educators and health care professionals in order to address HIV/AIDS.
Australia is helping Bangladesh combat HIV/AIDS through research activities in partnership with the Centre for Health and Population Research (ICDDR,B). The three ICDDR,B research projects attempt to 1) study the dynamics of HIV infection including the incidence of hepatitis and determining the risk factors for HIV and hepatitis C, and enhance intervention for the injecting drug users (IDUs); 2) understand and overcome barriers to condom use by sex workers in Bangladesh and 3) undertake an evaluation of Partner Notification for STI/HIV among service providers in Bangladesh.
ICDDR,B will conduct these studies in association with the field programs of key implementing organisations, thus creating an enabling environment for evidence-based project implementation. This supports informed decision and policy making. Previously Australia funded an ICDDR,B study examining the significance of Bangladeshi male behaviour and sexual constructions in the transmission, prevention and control of STI/HIV and sexual health promotion in Bangladesh. It also provided essential equipment for monitoring disease progression of HIV/AIDS and other diseases.
• Contribution: A$ 3 million
• Duration: 2001-2003/04 and 2004/05 - 2006/07
• Contractor: Centre for Health and Population Research (ICDDR,B)