Successes in sexual health communications development,programmatic implementation and evaluation in the Torres Strait region 2006 to 2012 |
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Authors: | Patricia S Fagan Heather K Robertson Alisa E Pedrana Alexandra Raulli Alan A Crouch |
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Institution: | 1. School of Public Health, Tropical Medicine and Rehabilitation Sciences, James Cook University, Queensland;2. Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service, Queensland;3. Centre for Population Health, Burnet Institute, Victoria;4. Epidemiology SectionACT Health;5. Centre for Excellence in Rural Sexual Health, University of Melbourne, Victoria |
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Abstract: | Objective: To evaluate the Indigenous sexual health promotion program in the Torres Strait 2006–2012 that culminated in an education‐entertainment radio drama, Kasa Por Yarn (KPY). Methods: A mixed methods approach applied to unpublished program documents and program‐derived peer‐reviewed publications was utilised. Results: Early initiatives established a strong partnership with Torres Strait Islander stakeholders. Significant community engagement throughout ensured a positive process. Telephone survey data (n=100, TSI, 15–24 years) found: 95% had heard of KPY and 80% listened to 2 or more episodes (reach); 86% recalled storylines/characters (recall); and 54% talked about KPY to family/friends (resonance). There was improvement in sexual health knowledge scores (p<0.00) in the 15–19‐year‐old Torres Strait Islander population between 2007 and 2012. The 2012 15–24‐year‐old population exposed to KPY had higher sexual health knowledge scores compared with those unexposed (p=0.02). Conclusions: This is an uncommon comprehensive evaluation of population‐based sexual health communications strategies delivered over years in a remote Australian setting. The findings are encouraging but demonstrate that positive shifts take time and are incremental. Implications: In addition to clinical strategies, strategic and sustained investment in sexual health promotion expertise that leads community partnership and program development is required to reduce youth risk and prevent HIV/AIDS in remote populations. |
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Keywords: | Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sexual health promotion remote health care cultural integrity |
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