EFFECTIVENESS OF HIV & SYPHILIS SCREENING PROGRAM FOR HIGH RISK GROUPS IN KENDARI CITY: A CASE STUDY OF AT-RISK GROUPS IN THE WORKING AREA OF KEMARAYA HEALTH CENTER, INDONESIA

Abstract

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as HIV and Syphilis are serious global health problems, especially with high prevalence in at-risk groups and the potential for co- infection. However, data on the effectiveness of screening programs at the local level, particularly in Kendari City which is experiencing an increase in HIV and Syphilis cases, is limited. Key challenges include lack of access to health services, poor understanding of early detection, and stigma and discrimination. Therefore, this study focuses on evaluating the effectiveness of the HIV and Syphilis screening program at Puskesmas Kemaraya, Kendari, to improve knowledge and early detection among high-risk groups in the area. This study used a community service approach with a pre-post design. The intervention involved health education and screening using rapid tests to detect infections early. Knowledge of participants was measured before and after the intervention through pre- test and post-test questionnaires. The study sample consisted of 50 participants from the reproductive age group, commercial sex workers, transgender women, and the general public around the Kemaraya Health Center. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21 to calculate percentages and compare pre-test and post-test results. Results showed a significant increase in knowledge about HIV and Syphilis in at- risk groups after the intervention. For HIV, good knowledge increased from 36% (pre-test) to 56% (post-test). For Syphilis, good knowledge increased from 8% (pre-test) to 42% (post- test), although poor knowledge was still dominant (58%). HIV screening found no positive cases among the 50 respondents (0%). However, 3 out of 50 respondents (6%) tested positive for syphilis. This program demonstrates that community-based education and screening interventions are effective in increasing knowledge and early detection of HIV and Syphilis among high-risk groups. These results underscore the importance of early detection, especially for Syphilis which is still found in this population, and the need for continuous education and strengthening collaboration between Puskesmas, communities, and related institutions to expand the coverage of STI prevention and control programs.