title: Evidence-based approach to HIV/AIDS policy and research prioritization in the Islamic Republic of Iran.
abstract: In formulating the second national strategic plan for prevention of HIV/AIDS in the Islamic Republic of Iran a more evidence-based approach was needed. This paper reports on a systematic review of the local evidence about the determinants of HIV/AIDS transmission in 3 categories: poor knowledge and negative attitudes about HIV transmission; injection drug use; and sexual promiscuity. Of 93 reports reviewed, 53 met the inclusion criteria. Information about the prevalence and magnitude of effect for the 3 risk determinants at the national and regional level was scarce. Heterogeneity between studies, even in the same sub-population, was significant. An improved research base and better sharing of information are needed within countries of the Eastern Mediterranean Region.
authors.affiliation: Joint United Nations Programme HIV/AIDS, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran.
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Feizzadeh
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Nedjat
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Asghari
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Keshtkar
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Heshmat
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Setayesh
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Majdzadeh
mesh_terms: D001294:Attitude to Health; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D055317:Evidence-Based Practice / Q000458:organization & administration*; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000635:transmission; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006287:Health Planning Guidelines; D006291:Health Policy; D006292:Health Priorities / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D033181:Information Dissemination; D007492:Iran / Q000453:epidemiology; D008297:Male; D020380:Needs Assessment; D015995:Prevalence; D012106:Research / Q000458:organization & administration*; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012307:Risk Factors; D012725:Sexual Behavior / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D015819:Substance Abuse, Intravenous / Q000150:complications / Q000453:epidemiology