Bangkok Enhances HIV and STI Prevention Through Collaborative Initiative

On July 4, 2025, Bangkok intensified its commitment to combating HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) through a collaborative initiative involving the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH). This strategic partnership aims to systematically enhance prevention measures and improve public health across the city.

The launch event took place at King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL), where Dr. Sunthorn Sunthornchart, Deputy Permanent Secretary for the BMA, welcomed numerous participants, including health officials and community leaders. The event was presided over by Minister of Public Health Somsak Thepsutin, who emphasized the importance of the initiative.

"The Ministry of Public Health has been implementing a policy to provide HPV vaccinations to Thai women aged 11–20, both within and outside the education system," stated Dr. Sunthorn. This initiative has now been expanded to include female university students who have not previously received the vaccination. The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a leading cause of cervical cancer, which is notably prevalent among women in Thailand.

The collaborative effort, themed "Equality with Safety: HPV x Condom – Smooth or Rough, Confident and Disease-Free," focuses on enhancing STI prevention and boosting immunity against HPV. According to the AIDS and STIs Division of the MOPH's Department of Disease Control, this initiative aims to provide accessible and comprehensive HIV and STI screening, diagnosis, and care services tailored to the needs of various target groups.

The campaign promotes self-care and emphasizes the importance of consistent condom use, alongside advocating for additional preventive measures such as Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) for HIV. These strategies are crucial for improving the quality of life and ensuring safety among individuals.

The event featured a multitude of exhibition booths from various partner organizations, providing educational resources on STI prevention. Notable highlights included automatic vending machines from Sun Vending Co., an HPV vaccination point by the General Communicable Diseases Division, and the Pride Clinic by the BMA Health Department. The launch drew approximately 1,000 participants, including Dr. Opas Karnkawinpong, Permanent Secretary for Public Health, along with other MOPH executives, KMITL executives, students, and public health volunteers from the region.

Through this collaborative initiative, the BMA and MOPH are not only strengthening networks within public health but also raising awareness among young people about STI prevention and the importance of condom use. This concerted effort reflects a broader commitment to public health and disease prevention in Thailand, showcasing the potential for public-private partnerships to address critical health issues effectively.

As Thailand continues to face challenges related to HIV and STIs, the success of this initiative could serve as a model for similar campaigns in other regions, enhancing overall public health strategies and fostering a proactive approach to sexual health education.