As part of activities to commemorate the 2018 World AIDS Day, the Lift Above Poverty Organisation (LAPO) on Thursday screened no fewer than 100 barbers, hair dressers and cosmetologists in Lagos.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the screening was conducted by LAPO during a forum of the Lagos State Barbers, Hair Dressers and Cosmetologists Association in Ipaja, Alimosho Local Government Area.
Mrs Sandra Asowata, Regional Officer, LAPO, Lagos 2 Region, said World AIDS Day has been globally celebrated on Dec. 1 since 1988, with the theme of this year’s programme being ” Know Your Status, Get Tested. “
” UNAIDS estimate that more than 9.4 million people living with HIV still do not know their status.
“This year marked the 30th anniversary of World AIDS Day.
“Since its inception in 1988, the AIDS response has made significant progress and today millions of people living with HIV are living healthy and productive lives.
“LAPO believes that we still have a long way to go as the latest UNAIDS report indicates that one of the challenges remaining is knowledge of HIV status, ” Asowata said.
According to her, it is therefore imperative that people undergo HIV/AIDS test at least twice a year.
She urged the participants to avoid practices that could expose them to the virus such as unprotected sex, keeping of multiple sexual partners, sharing of unsterilised sharp objects as well as unscreened blood transfusion.
Asowata admonished them to either practice abstinence, be faithful to their partners or ensure correct usage of condom during sexual intercourse. (NAN)
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