While the HIV/AIDS epidemic is of global concern, Sub-Saharan Africa represents a mighty chunk of world totals, according to UNAIDS. Over 70% of AIDS deaths took place in that region – over 60% of people living with HIV are in Sub-Saharan Africa.

According to a UNAIDS report – The AIDS Epidemic Update – East Asia and Central Asia/Eastern Europe have seen the most significant increases in the number of people living with HIV. Uganda, which had previously showed signs of declining numbers, is starting to see an increase again.

Here are some facts from the report:

— 4.3 million new HIV infections this year (estimate)

— 2.8 million new HIV infections in Sub-Saharan Africa alone

— 15-24 year-olds make up 40% of new infections

— 2.9 million deaths from AIDS and AIDS related illnesses this year (estimate)

— 270,000 new infections in Central Asia/Eastern Europe this year compared to 160,000 in 2004 (70% increase)

— 15% rise in number of new infections in South East Asia this year compared to 2004

— Women have a much higher chance today of being affected by HIV than before

— 40% more women living with HIV than men in Sub-Saharan Africa today

— HIV epidemics still growing in South Africa

— China and Portugal praised for implementing prevention programs that have worked

— In North America and Western Europe the number of new infections has remained the same

— North America and Western Europe prevention programs have not been sustained

The report stresses that prevention programs do work, the problem is they are often not sustained. It is important the prevention programs are focused and adapted to reach those most at risk of HIV infection.

The following countries have seen a fall in the numbers of news cases: Botswana, Burundi, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda, Tanzania and Zimbabwe. The report says the numbers of new cases in these countries have dropped because of positive trends in young people’s sexual behaviors, including an increased use of condoms, becoming sexually active later in life, and having fewer sexual partners.

Click here to access The AIDS Epidemic Update.

Written by: Christian Nordqvist
Editor: Medical News Today