I Know Mine: Developing An Internet-Based Sexual Health Intervention for Alaska Native and Rural Youth

Background: Evidence from a focus group project with Alaska Native and rural youth in Alaska suggests that sexual health interventions need to use the internet as a platform to reach adolescents with STD/HIV education and testing messages.

Objectives: To describe the development of an Alaska Native and rural youth focused intervention utilizing an interactive website and promotional materials.

Methods: In March 2009, the HIV/STD Prevention Center began developing a website dedicated to providing  STD/HIV and unplanned pregnancy prevention resources and information to Alaska Native and rural youth. In addition to the website, culturally appropriate posters, brochures and promotional items were created.

Results: The HIV/STD Prevention Center launched www.iknowmine.org in the fall of 2009. The website features interactive tools that allow users to order condoms, ask sexual health questions, view videos and read stories about STDs/HIV and unplanned pregnancy and participate in polls, surveys and a blog. The website also provides specific information on STDs, HIV, unplanned pregnancy and related issues. Users can find STD/HIV testing locations throughout Alaska as well as request testing appointments. Information presented on the website is also available in form of brochures adapted to Alaska Native and rural youth. Posters and promotional materials such as customized condoms, T-shirts and stickers were designed to draw attention to the site.    

Conclusions: Developing a STD/HIV prevention website is a lengthy but feasible process and the final product is likely to reach more youth than traditional means by alleviating barriers such as perceived breaches of confidentiality and privacy.

Implications for Programs, Policy, and/or Research: An internet-based sexual health intervention has the potential of being a useful tool for promoting STD/HIV knowledge, prevention and testing among Alaska Native and rural youth.