A new study by IOM on sexual and reproductive health with a focus
on HIV/AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) among the
communities located along Ecuador’s northern border, have
discovered a high prevalence of STIs.

The study, among the communities of San Lorenzo, Tambillo and
Limones, also found there was a high incidence of the Human
Papillomavirus, which can cause cervical cancer.  The study
also confirms the early initiation of sexual activity in these
communities, low levels of education, and high levels of
pregnancy.

“We must improve the living conditions of all persons
residing along Ecuador’s northern border.  This includes
the local residents, refugees and people in search of international
protection.  But we must also increase the sexual education
being provided at all levels,” explains gynecologist Dr.
Walter Moya.

IOM has shared the results of the study with local and national
authorities.

Since August 2007, IOM has been working to support the
strengthening of sexual and reproductive health services in the
area through an HIV/AIDS focused programme. The direct
beneficiaries are the local residents of San Lorenzo and Tambillo
which receive Colombians in search of international
protection.  IOM works with the Ministry of Public Health,
Provincial Health Department of Esmeraldas and the Ecuadorian Red
Cross.

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Link alt="" border="0" height="12" hspace="0" src=
"/jahia/webdav/site/myjahiasite/shared/shared/mainsite/graphics/interface/icons_buttons/blue_link_box.gif"> "/jahia/webdav/shared/shared/mainsite/media/docs/reports/revisita_vih_baja.pdf"
target="_blank" title="">Proyectos de Salud Sexual y Reproductiva
de Emergencia con Énfasis en its y VIH/SIDA

Since October 2005, IOM has also been working to address the urgent
needs of Colombians who flee from the violence of illegal armed
groups and who seek international protection.  The programme,
funded by the US Department of State’s Bureau of Population,
Refugees and Migration (PRM), covers Colombia’s border areas
with Ecuador, Panama and Venezuela.

A survey conducted by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees
(UNHCR) in February 2008 reported an estimated 85,000 Colombians
living in communities along Ecuador's northern border.

To access the report in Spanish, please go to "paragraph-link-no-underline-bold" href=
"http://www.iom.int/jahia/webdav/shared/shared/mainsite/media/docs/reports/revisita_vih_baja.pdf"
target="_blank" title="">this link.

For more information, please contact:

Ana Guzman

IOM-Ecuador

Tel:  + (593-2) 225-3948

E-mail: "mailto:aguzman@iom.int">aguzman@iom.int