Women and HIV/AIDS: A Global Perspective

United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS estimated that at the end of 1997 that there were 12.2 million women living with HIV; this represents 41.5% of the global adult burden of infection. The majority of women had been infected through unprotected sex. To date, about 800,000 women have died of AIDS. Of the estimated five million new infections among adults contracted during 1997, two million (40.1%) were among women. This global estimate masks the excess risk observed among women compared to men in countries where HIV has been predominantly heterosexually transmitted since the early days of the pandemic. Clearly, there are no quick fixes in reducing the vulnerability of women to HIV infection. There needs to be a comprehensive, sustainable approach that addresses the three intertwined epidemics: HIV, AIDS, and impact of the premature loss of lives. Any attempt to reduce women's vulnerability and risk has to focus on structural changes/issues relating to development that could redress the power imbalance in society. There needs to be humility to recognize strengths and weaknesses of different modes of inquiry from the basic to the social sciences, as well as the community experiences garnered to date, and an openness and respect for sexual diversity and differences. A holistic and committed endeavor of politicians, leaders, civil society, scientists, and policymakers is needed to have a fully developed and sustained response that can address the complexities of women's vulnerability to HIV and AIDS.