PIP: There were approximately 3 million HIV-positive women in the world, most of them in reproductive age according to the WHO's 1991 estimates. One third of the world's HIV-positive individuals are women; by the year 2000, women will account for half of the HIV-positive population. There are at least 200,000 HIV-positive women in Asia, mainly in Thailand, India, and China. The community-based Botswana project approach to AIDS prevention for women was based on a community-based model project at the University of Illinois to promote health in 2 low-income communities in Chicago by teams of trained residents and a nurse. Program elements included: women as health promoters; acceptance of primary health care; and emphasis on self-care in basic health. In Botswana the fertility rate is 5%, and approximately 40% of the women use contraceptives. The overall mortality rate is 37 per 1000. The 1st case of AIDS in Botswana was identified in 1985. As of January 1991, there were 180 cases and 59 AIDS-related deaths. There are 20,000 to 47,000 HIV-positive individuals in Botswana. There have been more women than men among reported AIDS cases in Botswana. Most women in their childbearing years are at moderate risk of HIV infection because of weak partner ties and occasional multiple partners. A 2-stage study of the effectiveness of nurse-managed peer education and support groups for AIDS prevention for women has been in operation for the 2nd year. In the 1st phase, interviews with more than 50 urban women explored their current risk of HIV infection and the risk-reduction strategies. The strategy for change used peer education and support groups led by trained community women to achieve lasting behavioral changes that promote health. The target group approach will include all women in the community. Heterosexual transmission of HIV is the predominant route of infection for women, hence promotion of safer sex is central in the Botswana intervention. The same AIDS preventive practices also protect against other sexually transmitted diseases including gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydiosis, which have high prevalence rates in Botswana.