The uses of epidemiologic and public health approaches for HIV/AIDS control among young men in the Royal Thai Army and Thailand

the effectiveness of hiv/aids control in thailand is well recognized internationally and is due to the perception of national threat, the acknowledgement of the policy-makers, the efficient mechanisms of management at all levels, the relevant counter-measures and plans, the sustained commitment in the fight against hiv/aids and the total mobilization of all sectors of the country to deal with the problems. the royal thai army (rta) and the rta medical department (rtamd) have significant roles in solving the hiv/aids problems by partnering in the threat assessment, surveillance among conscripts to monitor hiv spread and control it effectively, research on behavioral risks leading to the development of targeted intervention models first piloted with conscripts and later adapted for other risk groups, providing care and support to people living with hiv/aids (pwa) and cooperation with civilian and international partners. factors that have contributed to the success of the rta's operations include the strong organizational infrastructure and management, the relevant strategies and measures, the determination for long-term commitment and total mobilization of resources and multi-sectoral coordination. the lessons learned from the rta's experience in hiv/aids prevention and impact alleviation, especially by epidemiologic and public health approaches, can be used as a basis for further development towards more effective and efficient models. it can also be a useful example for other agencies in thailand and other countries with the same problems and similar socio-cultural backgrounds to apply and adapt for their own uses.