The advent of the information age has enabled billions of people to enjoy the benefits of a more connected world. Unfortunately, it also exposed many to the risks that come with it.
The rise of technology, particularly of the internet and social media has changed the landscape of the fight against the human-immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Studies show that increased connectivity has enabled the infection to spread among the youth.
Statistics released by the Department of Health (DOH) reveal that HIV infections are highest among young Filipinos between 15 to 30years old. The increasing number of cases in the Philippines, which is an exception to the downward trend worldwide has promptedthe National Youth Commission to declare an epidemic of HIV among young Filipinos.
Recently, a group of scientists have decided to address the matter head-on. A mobile game called Battle in the Blood or #BitB wasdeveloped with the purpose of increasing awareness and mainstreaming discussion about HIV, particularly among the youth. The gamewas released in the for the commemoration of world AIDS Day last December 1.
In an interview with STARweek, Dr. Emmanuel Baja of University of the Philippines-Manila and head of the HIV Gaming, Engagingand Testing (HIV GET Tested) Project that developed #BitB, he said that more young Filipinos are engaging in sexual activity partly because thereare more ways to communicate. “The popularity of smartphones led to the rise of what are known as dating or hook up (mobile) applications”saidBaja. “This gaming app is a very powerful communication tool to address the stigma of HIV especially among young men who have sex with men and transgender women who are at higher risk for HIV infection. The app, designed specifically for the Philippine context is the first game to address barriers to HIV treatment and counseling services n the country”added Baja.
The good thing about the app is that it allows users to access additional information about HIV, including treatment and testing centres and a link to an online community where they can discuss the illness. “HIV is no longer a death sentence. It not yet curable but it can be treated usingARVs (antiretroviral medication) that lower the viral load (to reduce the risk of passing the virus). What is important is that the infection isdetected as early as possible”shared Baja.
#BitB’s overall game design is simple yet engaging. Its game play can be compared to other popular mobile application game thatrequires users to match candies to clear a buzz;e and advance to the next level. But instead of candies, #BitB will have to match icons that educateusers about HIV. The icons include ARVs, health care, healthy living, condoms and time. Additional information can be seen in the dedicated page thatexplains the significance of the icons in preventing and treating the disease.
#BitB is funded through the Newton_Agham Grant of the United Kigndom’s Medical Research Council and the Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Council for Health Research and Development.
Following the launch, project developers say they will monitor its reception and impact and use the information that they will gatherfor their research.
With additional reports: Jan Victor R. Mateo, STARWeek
Photos used:
https://www.wfae.org/post/grindr-admits-it-shared-hiv-status-users#stream/0
https://www.wired.co.uk/article/tinder-apple-tv
https://www.philstar.com/other-sections/starweek-magazine/2018/01/07/1775277/bitb-hiv-fighting-using-technology
http://www.topafricanews.com/2019/04/17/african-health-ministers-pledge-action-on-hiv-aids/
