Impact of HIV/AIDS on FISHERMEN.

July 9, 2003

Greetings from SAGODHAR,

Society for Advocacy & Global Organisation Dedicated for HIV/AIDS Research.

SEAMEN always have priority in HIV/AIDS research. Chances of incidence of HIV

with seamen travelling long distances from homeland and staying ashore in

various ports, undoubtedly are very high. But that is not the case with

FISHERMAN.

FISHERMEN are the poorest among the poor and they stake their daily lives for

earning their bread (fish!). Nobody can say certainly whether a fisherman will

return safely once he leaves for fishing.

Contrary to other Sea jobs, his trip is a very short one. Maximum period he

could live in sea would be for two weeks or so. Entire period, he lives in

water and absolutely there is no chances of his meeting with HIV infected

people. He has to come back to his home only and whatever sex he has, it would

be in his vicinity only.

SAGODHAR made a study of HIV/AIDS incidence and awareness among the fishermen

community in the coastal areas of CHENNAI., TAMILNADU, INDIA.

BESANT NAGAR is one of the most beautiful and longest coastal area of Chennai.

Nearly 1500 fishermen families are living in this long coastal area. We met the

family members and fishermen and conducted a study and it was noted that though

existing medical facilities are very much lacking , incidence of HIV among men,

women & children are very low whereas awareness of HIV/AIDS is very high. A few

suspected HIV infections are with jobless local vagabonds.

SAGODHAR wishes to make a full-fledged study of of the above subject and

individuals and N.G.Os desirous of taking part may contact us immediately.

Also their experiences in the above field may kindly be shared with us.

Dr B.Sathyanarayanan. M.Sc., Ph.D.

President. SAGODHAR.

E-mail: <sagodhar@...>

Recommended Posts