Healthcare - HIV and AIDS

HIV & AIDS
HIV/AIDS is a serious problem in Guatemala, where widespread ignorance and misconceptions facilitate the disease’s spread. The region Ak’ Tenamit lies in has a higher incidence of the HIV/AIDS than the country as a whole, due to the presence of Guatemala’s Atlantic port, extensive banana plantations and prostitution. Poverty drives Q’eqchi men to work on the farms for extended periods, and some of them return to their villages infected with the HIV virus.

Ak' Tenamit has consequently developed an HIV/AIDS program that provides culturally-sensitive education for prevention while promoting the good treatment of infected individuals. There is no government education program directed toward the Q'eqchi' Maya, so Ak’ Tenamit’s indigenous health promoters had to adapt international educational materials for the local population. Ak’ Tenamit staff give presentations and work with village health promoters to raise awareness and educate local people about the dangers of HIV/AIDS and how to prevent transmission.

Please consider becoming a Health Partner!

Health: Overview | Clinic & Dental Health | HIV & AIDS | Women's Health | Help Us Provide