Traditionally, young men enter a Buddhist monastery for three months to study Buddhism. The Tai also attempt to incorporate their Buddhist beliefs with folk animism, a practice in which they seek help through the worship of spirits and objects. Thailand has serious public health problems. Hepatitis is prevalent and malaria is a problem in rural areas. HIV infections are epidemic in the cities.
Prostitution is a pressing social problem.
Approximately 200,000 to 500,000 prostitutes, usually from poor, rural areas, are forced to sell their bodies to help their families survive. Education and employment opportunities for women are limited, and many women and children lack adequate health care. Although a number of missions agencies are working among the Central Tai, more help is needed. The Bible, the Jesus film, and Christian broadcasts are all available in the Tai language. Prayer Points Ask God to raise up prayer teams who will begin breaking up the soil through worship and intercession.