Hope inspired by faith: the role of Buddhism in HIV/AIDS prevention and care in Thailand

Religion is a strong source of civil society that should not be ignored if culturally sensitive development is to occur. Typically, religious institutions have been trusted centres of education, health care and social support. Utilizing these deeply embedded forms of civil society to increase HIV/AIDS prevention and care efforts is only logical. Buddhism has had an important role in combating HIV/AIDS in Thailand, due to its holistic methods of treating illness. With over 2,500 years of experience, Buddhism has utilized spiritual beliefs, support systems, meditation, herbal medication and massage techniques to encourage HIV/AIDS prevention and to bolster the quality of life for people suffering with HIV/AIDS. These complimentary forms of treatment, work in conjunction with modern medication to create a thoroughly Thai form of healthcare.