In this paper, the epidemiological and behavioral data on Uganda to other African countries is assessed, and then analyse data from other populations where HIV has declined. In Uganda, HIV prevalence declined from 21% to 9.8% from 1991-98, there was a reduction in non-regular sexual partners by 65%, and greater levels of communication about AIDS and people with AIDS through social networks, unlike the comparison countries.

This report states that there is evidence of a basic population level response initiated at community level, to avoid risk, reduce risk behaviors and care for peoplewith AIDS. The basic elements - a continuum of communication, behavior change and care - were integrated at community level. They were also strongly supported by distinctive Ugandan policies from the 1980s. The paper identifies a similar, early behavior and communication response in other situations where HIV has declined:Thailand, Zambia and the US Gay community. In Thailand, visits to sex workers decreased by 55% and non-regular partners declined from 28% to 15% (1990-93): as important as the "100% condom use policy".

Topics include:

• Evaluating HIV prevention: local successes and global failures
• HIV prevalence and sexual behavior declines: when and by how much?
• Social communications about AIDS
• Behavioral and communication elements of other successes
• behavior modification alongside condom use with sex workers