The joint family and sexual health protection program of the NEVI (National Health Protection Institute) and the Hungarian Defense Forces

The NEVI [National Health Protection Institute] and the Health Service of the Hungarian Defense Forces have involved several specialists of the Hungarian Defense Forces in their AIDS prevention program in order to provide education about healthy family life the maintenance of psychological health and the avoidance of promiscuity. In the military the risk of indiscriminate sex is high because of casual relations during leave from service. The primary prevention program is very appropriate in the military setting where large numbers of young people are concentrated. The task consists of: 1) assessment of the sexual habits knowledge level and attitude of the population to be investigated; and 2) educational work aimed at correcting by statistical means any deficiencies found. The sample should comprise a homogenous group of 2000-2500 persons who would be administered a questionnaire dealing with family life sex behavior and knowledge on AIDS. The analysis and its evaluation would be undertaken by trained specialists in mental hygiene educators psychologists psychiatrists and sociologists. The program would stress the exploration of self the strengthening of responsible behavior in young people and the development of risk reduction sex behavior to avoid AIDS. This goal would be aided by forming a local coordinating unit to inform the soldiers about the problems of the community. The dissemination of information would take place by means of lectures presentations placards fliers brochures and movies and by contests and instructional courses to be held by mental hygiene specialists and social workers. Alternative leisure activities could include sporting and cultural events. Distribution of condoms would be part of the program. The evaluation would measure the impact of the program and the feasibility of extending it to the whole army.