Most At Risk Populations
Targeted interventions and behaviour change strategies for populations at elevated risk of HIV and STI transmission in Jamaica.
Targeted Interventions
The National HIV/STI Programme directs focused prevention efforts toward Most At Risk Populations (MARPs) — groups identified as having a higher vulnerability to HIV and STI transmission. These targeted interventions form a core pillar of the programme's Behaviour Change Communication (BCC) strategy.
By understanding the specific social, economic, and behavioural factors that increase risk within these populations, the programme designs outreach and education initiatives that are culturally relevant and practically effective. The goal is to reduce transmission rates while ensuring equitable access to prevention, testing, and care services.
Behaviour Change Strategies
Behaviour Change Communication lies at the heart of the MARPs approach. The programme employs evidence-based methods to encourage sustained adoption of safer behaviours, including:
- Peer-led education and outreach within high-risk communities
- Culturally tailored messaging delivered through trusted channels
- Integration of prevention messaging with accessible testing and counselling services
- Partnerships with community organisations to extend reach and credibility
These strategies are designed not only to inform but to shift norms and build resilience against risk over the long term.
Related Programmes
The MARPs strategy is closely linked with broader prevention efforts. The programme's Prevention Programmes overview examines how underlying factors influence risk-taking behaviour and which strategies are most effective in the Jamaican context. Complementary initiatives such as Cultural Vehicles and PLACE & TCI further strengthen the reach and impact of targeted interventions.