by Viju Mangalore

Mangalore: Mar 1: Despite massive awareness on prevention of HIV/AIDS, the taboo related to the disease has not been removed. Media is the only weapon through which a social change can be created. With this firm conviction a one-day sensitization programme for the journalists of the district was held here on Wednesday February 28.

The Centre for Advocacy and Research (CFAR) in association with the Karnataka Health Promotion Trust (KHPT), Karnataka State AIDS Prevention Society (KSAPS), District Health & Family Welfare Department and Information Department organized the programme, which was participated by over 60 journalists from several pockets of the district.

Inaugurating the progrmame Alva's Education Society Chairperson Dr M Mohan Alva said that there is a need to create awareness against the taboos associated with AIDS victims. Harsh treatment is meted on those infected with HIV. Unfortunately, the society, doctors and even the victim's family members consider them immoral.

"In fact, there are some diseases like Hepatitis B and C which are much more dangerous than AIDS. But the way the society looks at an AIDS victim is more horrible than the way people suffering from other diseases are treated," he said.

He added that such an attitude forces victims to lose their mental strength to fight against the disease.

Journalist Suresh Belagaje said the taboos associated with AIDS victims may be removed if the society makes an earnest attempt to understand realities.

HIV victims Seema Mathias and Shanthi Noronha shared their experiences with the participants.

District Health Officer Dr Jagannath, former DHO Dr Mohanraj, District Aids (Control) Nodal Officer Dr Ramakrishna, Dr Balakrishna, G B Meti, Dr Mohan H L of the Karnataka Health Promotion Trust and CFAR Project Manager Ambika Savitri were among those present at the workshop.

Advocates Mohammed Peer and Akila were the resource persons at the workshop.