IMPROVING HIV/AIDS PREVENTION AND EDUCATION FOR YOUTH IN INDONESIA

Abstract

HIV/AIDS is one of the health problems that continues to grow in Indonesia, including among adolescents. Adolescents are a group that is more susceptible to HIV/AIDS due to a lack of understanding, peer pressure, and various risky behaviors such as unsafe sex and drug use. This study aims to examine the importance of improving HIV/AIDS prevention and education for adolescents in Indonesia in order to reduce the number of people affected by this disease. This study used quantitative methods by sending questionnaires to adolescents to measure their level of knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to HIV/AIDS prevention. The results showed that appropriate, continuous education tailored to the needs of adolescents can increase their knowledge and awareness of the importance of maintaining reproductive and sexual health. Education involving schools, health workers, and the use of digital media is considered effective in shaping HIV/AIDS prevention behavior. Thus, improving HIV/AIDS prevention and education for adolescents is very important in building a healthy, knowledgeable young generation that is capable of making wise decisions regarding health.