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Chin, JJ, Mantell, J., Weiss, L., Bhagavan, M., Luo, X. (2005). Chinese and South Asian Religious Institutions and HIV Prevention in New York City. AIDS Education and Prevention.
o As HIV/AIDS affects Asian immigrant communities, there has been little understanding on if and how religious institutions, such as Hindu Temples and Muslim Mosques, are willing or able to take a role in HIV prevention.
o As religious groups are an integral part of Hindu and Muslim communities, they face unique challenges in dealing with negative, stigmatizing attitudes towards HIV/AIDS, as well as lack of knowledge about the disease.
o Through interviews, the study showed that some religious leaders felt involvement in HIV prevention education was not necessary. They believed that their moral and religious teachings should be sufficient in helping to protect their community members from HIV.
o Religious organizations have a conservative approach towards HIV due to their traditions around sexuality and sexual behavior. However, they are beginning to realize the impact of HIV/AIDS in their communities, which will require them to confront HIV/AIDS in a culturally appropriate manner.
o The study discusses how Mosques and Hindu temples can play an important role in helping to prevent HIV in their communities, since they play a large part in shaping social norms and attitudes.
o Some suggestions to address HIV/AIDS at religious institutions include:
§ Promoting community norms for HIV prevention
§ Reduction of stigma
§ Providing spiritual guidance around HIV/AIDS
§ Incorporate HIV prevention efforts in existing program activities
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