Two-thirds of the world's approximately 32.9 million people with HIV live in sub-Saharan Africa, and 75 percent of all AIDS deaths in 2007 occurred there, according to the United Nations. The continent accounts for a disproportionate number of infections and deaths. Some distinct factors contribute to the pandemic of HIV in Africa.
Origins
Africa is "ground zero" for HIV. According to the University of Zambia, HIV is detectable in frozen blood samples from as far back as the 1940s. In its earlier days, AIDS was known as "slims," for the weight loss it caused.
Mother-to-Child Transmissions
In Western Europe, there were fewer than 100 mother-to-child transmissions (MTCT) of HIV in 2007, whereas in sub-Saharan Africa, there were more than 370,000, according to UNAIDS Executive Director Michel Sidebe. UNAIDS cites lack of access to antiretroviral medicine, antenatal care services, and testing and counseling for expectant mothers for the high number of mother-to-child transmissions.
Myths
In South Africa, up to one-third of the country believes that sex with a virgin will cleanse the body of AIDS, which is causing a rise in HIV among the nation's children.
Misunderstandings
Africans have long struggled with the connection between medicine and cure. For example, Africans have had a difficult time understanding how nausea-inducing medications for Hansen's disease (leprosy) produce long-term benefits.
Uganda and ABC
One country in Africa, Uganda, claims a decrease in HIV cases. The government advocates the ABC approach of "abstinence; be faithful; condoms," in education and public messaging.
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