Rules, regulations, and relevant provisions regarding health screenings, HIV/AIDS testing, and sexually transmitted disease prevention among children and youth within the Thai justice process
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.14456/dcj.2025.26Keywords:
sexually transmitted infections (STIs), health in juvenile facilities, the juvenile justice, system AWARE ApproachAbstract
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV/AIDS are significant health problems worldwide. The United Nations issued a statement in 2021 declaring them as public health threats and emphasized the urgency to end these issues by 2030. Regarding the situation of STIs in Thailand, in 2022, it was projected that there would be a total of 560,000 HIV/AIDS cases, with an increasing trend in syphilis infections. Half of the new infections occurred in the 15-24 age group, which is the same age group as children and youth involved in the justice process. This study reviews documents from 1991 to 2024 to examine and analyze laws, regulations, and health screening documents related to STIs among these children and youth. It found that there are laws, regulations, and health examination documents, but none directly related to HIV/AIDS and STI screening. Although there are screening plans for at-risk groups, such as the 2023-2029 operational plan to end AIDS in Thailand, systematic screening services are lacking. Moreover, children and youth involved in the justice system face challenges in accessing health services due to the absence of organized screening systems and lack of continuity. A report from 1991 indicated an HIV infection rate of 0.94%. Recommendations suggest that STI screening in this group, who are vital human resources in society, should be conducted alongside health examinations. It requires policy support and integration among various agencies to provide screening services, improve access, ensure quality and fairness, and include regular monitoring and evaluation. These efforts will support Thailand’s goal to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030.
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