AIDS in the world. Comment

A project such as SIDALAC which focuses on AIDS and HIV in Latin America and the Caribbean is urgently needed because the international financing agencies scientific publications and even most health ministries have failed to extend their interest in AIDS beyond Brazil Haiti and Honduras. Immediate intervention may still prevent the epidemic of AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) from reaching catastrophic proportions. AIDS calls attention to the innumerable social inequalities between rich and poor countries between rich and poor within countries and between men and women. Most of the worlds cases are in the poorest countries of Africa. Access to the newly available antiviral therapies which have significantly prolonged survival of persons with AIDS will be limited to the wealthy. AIDS has demonstrated the lack of womens power to protect themselves. Sexual relations with stable sex partners constitutes one of the most important risks for women. The subordinate position of women and their ignorance of sexual topics has left them vulnerable. The globalization of the economy integration of markets and excessive privatization have had destructive effects on the poor in the developing countries. Migration and other attempts to adjust are associated with increased risk of HIV infection. Rich countries must increase assistance to the poor and means must be found to persuade individuals and especially men to behave more responsibly.