Such change may be difficult and even unpopular. But it is not impossible for education to result in significant changes in people’s sexual behavior. For example, Uganda has seen a greater decline in HIV than any other country in the world due to a national public health campaign based on its “ABC” model:
“A”—Abstain from sex until marriage
“B”—Be faithful to your partner
“C”—Use condoms if you are unwilling to practice abstinence and fidelity.
Joseph Loconte, a researcher for the Heritage Foundation summarizes the main lessons drawn from Uganda’s campaign against AIDS:
“The link between Uganda's 'ABC' approach and the dramatic reduction in the country's HIV/AIDS rate is now widely acknowledged. Based on research data collected over the past decade, several lessons can be drawn from the success of Uganda's strategy:
• High-risk sexual behaviors can be discouraged and replaced by healthier lifestyles.
• Abstinence and marital fidelity appear to be the most important factors in preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS.
•Condoms do not play the primary role in reducing HIV/AIDS transmission.
• Religious organizations are crucial participants in the fight against AIDS.”
~ Dan Vander Lugt