BACKGROUND

The Philippines has been significantly affected by the HIV epidemic in the Asia-Pacific region, with a notable increase in new cases over the past decade. Despite efforts to promote HIV testing, access to treatment, and awareness campaigns, progress has been slow, particularly among youths. Tangere, a market research application, conducted surveys during and after the COVID-19 pandemic to assess HIV knowledge among Filipinos.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate changes in HIV awareness among young Filipinos during and after the COVID-19 pandemic using data collected via Tangere’s surveys. Specifically, it sought to analyze demographic characteristics, sources of HIV information, and knowledge regarding HIV transmission, prevention, and stigma.

METHODS

Tangere collaborated with the investigators to develop a questionnaire assessing HIV knowledge among young Filipinos. Surveys were conducted during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, targeting subscribers aged 18-35 years, primarily from the National Capital Region and Luzon area. Data analysis involved calculating frequencies and percentages to summarize demographic characteristics and HIV knowledge. An Independent-Samples Proportions procedure was used to compare HIV knowledge during and after the pandemic.

RESULTS

The survey revealed that while respondents generally possessed reasonable knowledge about HIV, there were notable changes in the awareness during and after the pandemic. Social media and television were identified as primary sources of HIV information. Knowledge regarding HIV transmission and prevention increased postpandemic, particularly concerning preventive measures such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PREP) and motherto-child transmission (MTCT). However, persistent misconceptions and stigma surrounding HIV remained, indicating the need for continued education and advocacy efforts.

CONCLUSION

The study underscores the importance of utilizing social media platforms for HIV awareness campaigns, especially among youths who are disproportionately affected by the epidemic. Despite improvements in knowledge, the Philippines has yet to achieve global HIV prevention goals. Continued efforts to enhance awareness, particularly regarding recent advancements in HIV prevention and treatment, are essential for curbing the epidemic and improving public health outcomes nationwide.

Human ; Knowledge ; Attitude ; Hiv ; Covid-19 ; Pandemics

Objective: To report a case of mandibular fracture in a newborn presenting with post-delivery oral cavity bleeding and to discuss its etiology, clinical findings, diagnosis, management and outcome after treatment. Methods: Design: Case Report. Setting: Tertiary Government Training Hospital. Patient: One Results: A newborn girl was referred for oral cavity bleeding after partial breech extraction. An intraoral hematoma and symphyseal step deformity on examination corresponded to a complete fracture of the symphysis and downward displacement of the left hemimandible on facial CT scans with 3D reconstruction. An uneventful closed reduction with external fixation using acrylic cap splint with circum-mandibular wiring was performed under general anesthesia and she was discharged feeding well. The cap splint and wires were removed after 4 weeks showing good facial symmetry and bone alignment. There were no complications on follow-up after 1 year. Conclusion Mandibular fracture can result from traumatic delivery and present with oral bleeding and hematoma. A thorough physical examination and workup should be done to assess for the sites involved. A multidisciplinary approach should be undertaken to provide the best possible care with the least invasive technique.
Mandibular Fractures ; Infant, Newborn