HIV is growing problem in Eastern Europe

Milan Presburger, director of a Christian charity dedicated to combating HIV and AIDS in Europe, is using his UK visit to highlight the growing HIV problem in Eastern Europe.

Presburger's work with ACET Slovakia is now reaching over 90,000 school students with its 'Facts for Life' programme which alerts young Slovakians to the growing threat of HIV and sexually transmitted diseases and explores some of the life choices they face.

ACET Slovakia is part of the ACET International Alliance, which works in 23 countries, mobilising Christian church based volunteers to bring care, education and training to their communities.

Milan explained why his work is so important.

“The increasing westernisation of Slovakian society means that our young people are being exposed to a different, more promiscuous, lifestyle.

"Rates of teenage pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases are rising rapidly in Slovakia and HIV infections are increasing.

"The ‘Facts for Life’ programme offers a positive response and is proving very successful in schools in my country," he said.

During his visit to the UK Presburger will be visiting churches to share his work with local congregations.