The AIDS Prevention Research Project at the Harvard University Center for Population and Development Studies was established to support evidence-based research on the impact of behavioral approaches in reducing the transmission of HIV worldwide. The Project investigates documented HIV prevention successes, as well as other promising behavior-based approaches, to help guide the development of evidence-based models of behavior change for both generalized and concentrated epidemics.
The pivotal role of partner reduction in reducing HIV prevalence in generalized epidemics will be investigated, as well as other prevention strategies that have been shown successful, such as the ABC approach (Abstain, Be faithful, or use Condoms) used in Uganda and elsewhere. This Project also seeks to promote a deeper understanding of the influence that spirituality, beliefs and values, such as respect and responsibility, can have on human behavior and health, especially with regard to the AIDS pandemic.
The APRP is supported by the John Templeton Foundation.
On December 11, 2007, researchers from various institutions in South Africa and representatives from major foundations in the southern Africa region met in Johannesburg. The purpose of this meeting was to discuss the behavioural drivers and risk factors fueling the HIV epidemics of southern Africa, along with new directions for AIDS prevention interventions and greater involvement of private foundations and other partners and stake-holders in strategic HIV prevention.