Interdisciplinary Journal of Partnership Studies

Approach to a Group of Adolescents from Key Populations to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in Cuba

Lídice Mederos Villalón

Prosalud Cuba

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7391-0708

Olga L Revilla Vidal

Prosalud Cuba

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9773-9703

Nadina Peñalver Díaz

Prosalud Cuba

https://orcid.org/0009-0002-5663-5403

Zulendry Kindelán Ärias

Prosalud Cuba

Frankis Leonel Tirado Campo

https://orcid.org/0009-0005-0058-4768

Stephanie D. Gingerich

University of Minnesota School of Nursing

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24926/ijps.v12i2.6855

Keywords: adolescents, key populations, human immunodeficiency virus, HIV, sexually transmitted infections, STIs, health needs, knowledge, health disparities, health inequities

---

Abstract

to becoming infected with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) than the general population and therefore are considered a key population for HIV prevention strategies in Cuba. Children under 18 years of age who engage in these specific risk practices may be part of this key population. Objective: Identify the needs for guidance, information, and knowledge related to the prevention of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) for adolescents in selected municipalities of Havana who are part of key populations at higher risk for becoming infected with HIV and other STIs. Method: A qualitative study using the theoretical principles of phenomenology. Intentional non-probabilistic sampling identified a group of adolescents between 15 and 19 years old to participate in focus groups with the aim of achieving rapprochement. After the focus groups were completed, the participants requested that workshops be held. Results: Participants reported that they do not have timely information about sexual health and prevention of HIV as well as other STIs. Their general knowledge about infections was scarce and permeated with erroneous information. Although they felt the need to know their HIV status, they were unaware of how to seek out this information. Their families constituted one of the main sources of violence and discrimination. Conclusions: It is necessary to expand the evidence base for key adolescent populations, design comprehensive and multidisciplinary strategies that reduce their vulnerability to HIV and other STIs and guarantee that they receive timely support and treatment.