Current state of the HIV epidemic

In Current HIV/AIDS Reports, AIGHD’s Deputy Director, Science, Catherine Hankins, writes that future trends in the global HIV epidemic will be determined by the actions of individuals, couples, and communities. Dr. Hankins explains: “Ultimately, it will be policy makers, implementers, civil society, and funders that will be held accountable. They have to choose, implement, and evaluate prevention packages that are tailored to specific epidemic circumstances while they push forward to scale up antiretroviral treatment. It has proven prevention benefits and tangible impact on life expectancy.”

Of the 34 million people living with HIV worldwide, representing an estimated 0.8 % of all adults aged 15 to 49 years, about half know their HIV status. HIV prevalence continues to rise as antiretroviral treatment (ART) scale-up results in fewer HIV-related deaths while new infections continue to occur. Key populations, including sex workers, men who have sex with men, transgender people, people who inject drugs, and young women in high prevalence settings require effective prevention programs urgently. Dr. Hankins says: “Correcting mismatches in resource allocation and reducing community viral load will accelerate incidence declines and affect future epidemic trends, but this means taking concerted action now.” Although HIV incidence has declined in 39 countries, it is stable or increasing in others.

 

Overview of the Current State of the Epidemic

Authors: Hankins C

Link to PDF: Curr HIV/AIDS Rep (2013) 10:113–123

Link to abstract: PubMed