The learning objectives of the course include: to enable the learner to describe the differences in prevalence and epidemiological data for STDs in resource poor countries, review the amplifying effect of STDs on HIV infection and discuss various prevention strategies targeting a combined approach to HIV and STDs and potential impact of these approaches on both STD and HIV dissemination rates. The course discusses in detail the interaction between STDs and HIV infection and biological mechanisms by which other STDs can facilitate sexual transmission of HIV by increasing infectiousness or susceptibility.