Tuesday, December 01, 2009

World AIDS Day 2009


Some have observed that there is growing global indifference when it comes to the fight against HIV/AIDS even though the epidemic continues to rage on. As part of World AIDS Day 2009, I just wanted to highlight some figures from the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV (UNAIDS) to reflect on how the HIV/AIDS epidemic has impacted on our world:

  • Since the beginning of the epidemic, almost 60 million people have been infected with HIV and 25 million people have died of HIV-related causes.
  • In 2008, some 33.4 million [31.1 million-35.8 million] people living with HIV,
    • 2.7 million[2.4 million-3.0 million] new infections and
    • 2 million [1.7 million-2.4 million] AIDS-related deaths.
  • In 2008, around 430 000 [240 000-610 000] children were born with HIV, bringing to 2.1 million [1.2 million-2.9 million] the total number of children under 15 living with HIV.
  • Young people account for around 40% of all new adult (15+) HIV infections worldwide.
  • Sub-Saharan Africa is the region most affected and is home to 67% of all people living with HIV worldwide and 91% of all new infections among children.
  • In sub-Saharan Africa the epidemic has orphaned more than 14 million children
Sobering facts and harsh realities. 


Also in the news about HIV/AIDS in Africa:


Progression and regression in the fight against HIV on the continent?

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

Got tested today. Negative, yayyyyyy!

Abena Serwaa said...

Good for you Anonymous! Definitely think everyone should know their status. Quite impressed how they offer voluntary counseling and testing for free for example at various points on the University of Ghana campus.

Kayy Biggs said...

I know you're on Facebook, Abena. But I can't find you. I enjoy reading your blog. Keep the write-ups coming!!

Nana said...

Abena, will you be interested in participating in Friday's book reading at Expressions? I think you will be fantastic. Do let me kno

Abena Serwaa said...

@Kayy, Thanks! Keep coming by! Everyone seems to be on facebook these days...well, except my mother that is.


@Nana: Unfortunately I'm attending the MoGo Show at the National Theater on Dec 4th so I can't make it :( Reading from one's blog does sound like an interesting form of expression tho...