Hiv/Aids Epidemiology in Swaziland
Running head: HIV/AIDS Epidemiology in Swaziland
HIV/AIDS Epidemiology in Swaziland
Andrew Jay Mallo
Florida International University
Abstract
Since the first case was reported in 1986, AIDS has disproportionately affected the Kingdom of Swaziland relative to other nations in the region and globally. The high prevalence rate is characteristic of a generalized epidemic. It is estimated that there will be 20,000 to 30,000 new HIV infections each year. The Swazi Ministry of Health and Social Welfare [MoHSW] collects this data every two years, creating a lag of time between data collection and dissemination of information. Based on HIV prevalence studies, the HIV epidemic has disproportionately affected women, is primarily transmitted by heterosexual sex, and is more prevalent in urban areas than in rural areas of the country. There has been a decline in AIDS mortality rate since 2004 which may also correspond with an increase in antiretroviral therapy. An inequality exists between men and women that is a reason between the greater HIV prevalence rate in women. Descriptive studies have shown a relationship between cultural mores and how they influence sexual behavior. High HIV prevalence rates have had a devastating economic and social outcome in Swaziland. The large number of sick and debilitated citizens due to HIV/AIDS has decreased the workforce and has resulted in more poverty. In 2007 HIV claimed the lives of 10,000 Swazis. Despite the high HIV prevalence rates there appears to be some stabilization. There has also been a slight decrease in the AIDS mortality rate. Using condoms, reducing numbers of sexual partners, and broadening access to HIV testing and counseling are evidence-based initiatives that will help reduce the incidence of HIV in Swaziland. HIV/AIDS Epidemiology in Swaziland
In 2007 UNAIDS estimated that there were 190,000 Swazis living with HIV, with an adult prevalence rate of
HIV/AIDS Epidemiology in Swaziland
Andrew Jay Mallo
Florida International University
Abstract
Since the first case was reported in 1986, AIDS has disproportionately affected the Kingdom of Swaziland relative to other nations in the region and globally. The high prevalence rate is characteristic of a generalized epidemic. It is estimated that there will be 20,000 to 30,000 new HIV infections each year. The Swazi Ministry of Health and Social Welfare [MoHSW] collects this data every two years, creating a lag of time between data collection and dissemination of information. Based on HIV prevalence studies, the HIV epidemic has disproportionately affected women, is primarily transmitted by heterosexual sex, and is more prevalent in urban areas than in rural areas of the country. There has been a decline in AIDS mortality rate since 2004 which may also correspond with an increase in antiretroviral therapy. An inequality exists between men and women that is a reason between the greater HIV prevalence rate in women. Descriptive studies have shown a relationship between cultural mores and how they influence sexual behavior. High HIV prevalence rates have had a devastating economic and social outcome in Swaziland. The large number of sick and debilitated citizens due to HIV/AIDS has decreased the workforce and has resulted in more poverty. In 2007 HIV claimed the lives of 10,000 Swazis. Despite the high HIV prevalence rates there appears to be some stabilization. There has also been a slight decrease in the AIDS mortality rate. Using condoms, reducing numbers of sexual partners, and broadening access to HIV testing and counseling are evidence-based initiatives that will help reduce the incidence of HIV in Swaziland. HIV/AIDS Epidemiology in Swaziland
In 2007 UNAIDS estimated that there were 190,000 Swazis living with HIV, with an adult prevalence rate of
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